Global Charter of Conscience published

A Global Charter of Conscience has been drafted and published, introduced by the following explanation:

Freedom of conscience underpins many of the other human rights that we all enjoy. This is why the right to express your belief is enshrined in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, this freedom is being marginalised.

The Global Charter of Conscience will bring religious tolerance back to the centre of public debate, and it will help future generations engage freely in the public life of their nation.

The Charter has been drafted by people of many faiths and none, politicians of many persuasions, academics and NGOs, all committed to a partnership on behalf of “freedom of thought, conscience and religion” for people of all faiths and none.

British Medical Association affirms stand against euthanasia

Despite claims that 80% of the British population supports euthanasia and assisted suicide, and that 40% of physicians do so, the British Medical Association has voted against supporting a euthanasia bill being proposed in the Scots parliament.  Strong views were expressed by those on opposite sides of the issue. [The Scotsman]

U.S. Supreme Court upholds federal health care reform law

A ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the Affordable Care Act, the federal health care reform law that is the basis for the controversial “contraceptive mandate” being forced on employers by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  The decision does not deal with the mandate itself.

Objecting guard, Sheriff can be sued for refusing morning after pill to prisoner

A federal judge in Tampa, Florida has ruled that a rape complainant who was a prisoner can sue the Hillsborough County Sheriff because a guard, citing religious belief, refused to give her a prescribed morning after pill.  The complainant was arrested on an outstanding warrant when she made a complaint of rape.  She had taken one of two prescribed pills, but the second was seized with her effects when she was jailed, and the guard refused to provide it when she asked for it [Courthouse News][Ruling 13 June, 2012]. The judge had previously ruled that the guard could be sued.

Fortnight for Freedom begins in USA

Catholics in the United States are being asked by their bishops to participate in a “Fortnight for Freedom” in defence of freedom of conscience and religion.  The fortnight runs from 21 June, 2012 (the eve of the feast of St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher) to 4 July, 2012.  The Catholic Association is among the groups that has proposed an action plan for the event.  The National Catholic Partnership on Disability has also posted suggestions.