Thank you for contacting me about the persecution of Christians especially during the Coronavirus outbreak.
The UK has always championed freedom of religion or belief for everyone. As a country that has always been a beacon for freedom and tolerance, I passionately believe the UK should not shirk its responsibilities.
I understand your concerns about the increased vulnerability of Christians during the coronavirus outbreak. It is of course vital that we do all we can to ensure aid gets through to those that need it most. I know that the UK Government works to ensure that all aid reaches the most vulnerable including those from religious minorities. Covid-19 is likely to reinforce their marginalised position in society, their experience of discrimination, violence and stigma, and further limit their access to essential support and services. For this reason, guidance was circulated throughout the responsible Government departments highlighting the centrality of inclusion to the UK's response and that the specific contexts and needs of all religious minorities should be taken into account when developing practical programmes to tackle Covid-19.
On Nigeria specifically, I can assure you that the UK is committed to supporting the Government in upholding the right to freedom of religion or belief, as protected by its constitution. The recent escalation in intercommunal violence has affected multiple states of Nigeria and communities of all religions. Ministers regularly engage faith-based organisations and raise our concerns with the Nigerian government. In northeast Nigeria, Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa seek to undermine the right to freedom of religion by attacking both Muslims and Christians who do not subscribe to their extremist views. The UK is supporting Nigeria in tackling the insurgency through a substantial and increasing package of security, humanitarian and development support.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Craig Whittaker MP
October 2020