Northern Ireland Humanists publishes parties’ policies on humanist issues – General Election 2024

3 July, 2024

Northern Ireland Humanists has published its comparison of seven major Northern Ireland parties’ policies on some of the most important issues to humanists ahead of the General Election on 4 July. The table covers six areas and is based on parties’ manifestos, policies, and direct responses from parties to its questions.

The comparison covers both devolved issues – such as blasphemy law, an inclusive education system, assisted dying, and the implementation of abortion services – as well as secular reform of the House of Lords and appointing an envoy for Freedom of Religion and Belief (FoRB), which are matters for Westminster.

Take action

Ask your candidates where they stand on our election priorities.

Although the table covers the major parties’ positions, we also need to know where each individual candidate stands on our campaigns. This will help us make connections with tomorrow’s MPs. And with the election less than a week away, the timing could not be more crucial.

It’s not too late to email your local candidate

Northern Ireland Humanists is encouraging its members and supporters to hold their candidates to account in the election, introduce them to some of its priority issues, and find out what their views are on issues affecting the non-religious.

Northern Ireland Humanists Coordinator Boyd Sleator commented:

‘Although many issues are devolved to Northern Ireland, it is still crucial to have representatives who will advocate for ethical values. Therefore I urge everyone to vote and make sure their voice is heard. Never let your vote go to waste.’

  • Establishing safe abortion services 👩
  • Abolishing Northern Ireland’s blasphemy laws 🤐
  • Making non-religious pastoral care widely available 🤝
  • Religion in schools, including curriculum reform 📚
  • Support for asylum seekers, inc. humanists at risk 👨‍👧‍👧
  • A compassionate right to die law with safeguards 🕊

It’s not too late. Write to your candidates today.

Notes

Read our policy table for parties standing.

Read more about our General Election work.

Northern Ireland Humanists is independent of all political parties and does not support, fund, or advocate any particular political party.

Northern Ireland Humanists is part of Humanists UK, working with the Humanist Association of Ireland. Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 120,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.