Dignitatis Humanae: Declaration on Religious Freedom

The Declaration on Religious Freedom Dignitatis Humanae, promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1965, asserts the inherent human right to religious freedom. This right, grounded in human dignity and divine revelation, protects individuals and communities from coercion in matters of faith. The declaration emphasizes the importance of conscience and the moral duty to seek truth, while also acknowledging the need for social order and responsible exercise of freedoms. It further clarifies the Church's role in promoting religious freedom and its relationship with governmental authorities. The document aims to reconcile religious freedom with traditional Catholic doctrine and the common good.