Some interesting conclusions from a unique study by the Australian Human Rights Commission, in association with the Australian Multicultural Foundation, RMIT University and Monash University. The report, Freedom of Religion and Belief in the 21st Century involved consultations with Australian heads of faith, national and state/territory governments, NGOs, the Australian public via a national call for submissions (more than 2000 reportedly received) as well as a series of commissioned papers related to faith and society.
Overall results purportedly reveal "a vastly more complex religious landscape than 1998," when the last similar survey was done.
Of particular note, though perhaps not completely surprising, "distrust of Muslims as well as hostility towards homosexuals and pagans" (e.g., Aboriginals) apparently remain widespread (or concerns) throughout the nation.
The Australian Multicultural Foundation director and co-author, Hass Dellal, noted that the report's role was to record the varying views, so that every group could hear its own voice represented. It did not make recommendations but would be a resource for governments and faith communities.
According to co-author Gary Bouma, "Over the past 15 years - so it's not a result of September 11 - religious voices have re-entered the political domain vigorously. It's the resurgence of religion around the world - but it doesn't mean people are going back to church."
"Faith in general, and specific faiths, are often misunderstood or feel misrepresented, and this report highlights the importance of faith to many Australians, and the central role faith plays in Australian society," Dr Dellal said.
The report can be found and downloaded in its entirety here with several of the papers available here.
Overall results purportedly reveal "a vastly more complex religious landscape than 1998," when the last similar survey was done.
Of particular note, though perhaps not completely surprising, "distrust of Muslims as well as hostility towards homosexuals and pagans" (e.g., Aboriginals) apparently remain widespread (or concerns) throughout the nation.
The Australian Multicultural Foundation director and co-author, Hass Dellal, noted that the report's role was to record the varying views, so that every group could hear its own voice represented. It did not make recommendations but would be a resource for governments and faith communities.
According to co-author Gary Bouma, "Over the past 15 years - so it's not a result of September 11 - religious voices have re-entered the political domain vigorously. It's the resurgence of religion around the world - but it doesn't mean people are going back to church."
"Faith in general, and specific faiths, are often misunderstood or feel misrepresented, and this report highlights the importance of faith to many Australians, and the central role faith plays in Australian society," Dr Dellal said.
The report can be found and downloaded in its entirety here with several of the papers available here.
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