Church and the Human Rights

Abstract

Religious doctrine often contributes to the discourse on ethical issues in public life, although sometimes secular and religious concepts of justice collide. Across numerous societies religions have established a prominent role within the public space. Do human rights and religion clash? Or is their relationship complementary? Although religious groups do not always lend vocal support to the implementation of human rights, the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan is an example of a Christian church that spoke out against the violation of human rights, and which building on its religious faith became engaged in the secular field and opposed an oppressive government. Using the example of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, the chapter shows that religious bodies have the potential to be a positive force for change in society and that a Christian perspective on human rights can contribute to the secular discourse on the topic.