David Smith MP [Lab, North Northumberland] is today announced as the UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) and will champion FoRB for all around the world.  He will take up the appointment in the New Year.

As Envoy, David will champion FoRB for all overseas, promoting tolerance and mutual respect through and alongside the UK’s global diplomatic network and engagements in multilateral fora. David will represent the UK in international discussions on FoRB, working closely with other special envoys, experts and civil society partners. This work supports the UK’s wider human rights efforts, underpinning our belief that human rights are universal.

David’s appointment underlines the UK’s ongoing commitment to freedom of religion or belief for all.

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David brings a wealth of relevant experience to the role from his work in the charity sector and faith-based organisations. He has spent much of his career working in the UK and overseas to promote fairness, egalitarianism, compassion and the empowerment of the vulnerable.