On 3 March 2026, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief presented her report, highlighting how freedom of religion or belief guarantees that individuals and communities can honor the deceased according to their faith, ensuring dignity, equality, and respecting them even after death. Delegations emphasized that safeguarding these rights through legal frameworks and interfaith dialogue is essential for human dignity, social cohesion, and the protection of cultural and religious traditions.

H.E. Ambassador Marie-Thérèse Pictet-Althann during her statement, emphasized the Sovereign Order of Malta’s support for the Special Rapporteur’s report, highlighting the essential role of religion, traditions, and sacred sites in moments of mourning and grief. She underlined that access to cemeteries, respect for religious practices, and protection of places of worship are crucial for inclusion, social cohesion, and the peaceful exercise of faith. The Ambassador reaffirmed the Order’s commitment to promoting freedom of religion or belief through its global humanitarian work, ensuring that the basic needs of all persons are met, and called for stronger measures to prevent and prosecute acts of vandalism against religious sites, especially in times of crisis and conflict.