(Minghui.org) On December 10, 2024, Human Rights Day, Mr. Frank Schwabe, the German Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) to which the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz belongs, and a long-time spokesperson for the party on the Human Rights Committee of the German Parliament, issued statements on the German federal government website and social media platforms in support of Falun Gong and the practitioners who are still suffering from the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) large-scale persecution in China.
Mr. Frank Schwabe, the German Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, issued a statement on December 10, Human Rights Day.
“People are still discriminated against, persecuted, and killed because of their religion and worldview,” Mr. Frank Schwabe said. “In China, there is massive repression of religious minorities, such as members of Falun Gong. I would like to mention Ding Yuande, who has been wrongfully imprisoned for a long time, as an example.
“It remains our task to enforce freedom of religion worldwide, to draw attention to persecution, and to give those who are persecuted a voice.”
Back on July 27, 2023, the German government website posted his letter of support for Falun Gong practitioners’ peaceful protesting of the persecution for 24 years.
Letter from Mr. Frank Schwabe in 2023
Mr. Schwabe wrote in his letter, “Followers of Falun Dafa have been affected by the massive repression for over 24 years now. We extend to them our deepest sympathy and support. As a spiritual community based on truth, compassion, and tolerance, Falun Dafa appears to pose a great threat to Chinese authorities.
“The Chinese authorities have so far been unable and unwilling to refute reports of human rights violations, harassment, unlawful detentions, and so-called ‘re-education’ measures.
“In addition, the accusation of illegal organ removal from imprisoned Falun Dafa members is almost unimaginable. I am deeply affected by this. I once again call on the Chinese government to uphold international law. To protect human rights, including the right to freely practice a religion and belief. Make it transparent as to what extent donor organs were procured and transplanted in China. Grant the international community free access to court hearings and prisons—that is the only way to counter these serious allegations.
“We must not forget that the free exercise of religion, belief, and spirituality is a fundamental human right and essential for a free and just society.
“We should also be aware that there are many people around the world who are persecuted because of their beliefs and their commitment to freedom of religion and belief.
“Let us commemorate together today and commit ourselves to standing up for a world in which freedom of religion and belief, human rights, and freedom of expression are respected. May the memory of the practitioners of Falun Gong inspire us to work courageously and fearlessly for freer societies.
“Please be assured that I will continue to be available to you and will work with you to stand up for the rights to the free exercise of religion, spirituality, and belief.”
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