Lisbon Declaration: Religious Freedom in Relation to Sex, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity

Board of Experts of the International Religious Liberty Association
Lisbon, Portugal
September 29, 2022

The scholars and experts of the International Religious Liberty Association met in Lisbon, Portugal, from September 26 to 29, 2022, to re-evaluate and reconsider the historical legacy of often mutual antagonism between religious communities who wish to protect rights of religion and belief and those promoting gender equality and equal rights for the LGBT+ community. To the core question of the title, "Religious Freedom in Light of Modern Conceptions of Sexuality and Gender: Irreconcilable Differences and/or Spaces for Conversations?” we do not find the recognition of rights to be incompatible. The participants discussed the diverse understandings of gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity found across the globe and the lack of consensus about how to respond to this diversity, especially in relation to religious freedom. Differences of opinion on these topics can be found between and within religious communities, between religious and non-religious persons, and amongst non-religious persons.

Considering our commitment to religious freedom and human rights, the participants agreed that robust mutual accommodation should be sought between the liberty of religious individuals and institutions and the dignity of all persons, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Instances of efforts to achieve a balance between religious freedom and sexual and gender diversity were discussed, including legislation out of the American state of Utah, and the Fairness for All Act, under consideration in the United States Congress. These bills seek to protect both religious freedom as well as diversity and dignity in relation to gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

As supporters of freedom of religion and belief, we recognize that this fundamental freedom recognized by the international community is part of a range of human and civil rights that protects basic human dignity for all. We urge all human rights advocates, including religious liberty advocates, to facilitate dialogue and work both for laws that protect religious freedom for all, as well as the humanity, dignity, and civil rights of LGBT+ persons.