The Lived Experience of Religious Freedom: Challenges of UK-Based Evangelical Organizations

With rapidly changing religious demographics (as evidenced in the 2021 census), the possible change in government to one whose approach to faith is yet unknown, and the continued rise in religion-related hate crimes, there is a pressing need for a survey of the state of religious freedom in the United Kingdom (UK). This paper has two primary aims: (1) to identify the challenges faced by UK-based evangelical Christian organizations in relation to Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and (2) to introduce an empirically grounded theory that explains how these organizations address their challenges. During the research, classic grounded theory methodology was applied in its entirety. This included simultaneous data collection and analysis, constant comparison, theoretical sampling, memo-writing, open coding, selective coding, theoretical coding, and manual sorting of memos. The resulting theory is based primarily on interview data from a diverse set of participants, which includes leaders from evangelical congregations, politicians, academics, advocacy group leaders, and journalists. Evangelical organizations typically find that some of their activities can be perceived as offensive by the broader population. This study details the strategies these organizations employ to manage the reactions they receive, and it offers suggestions as to how they can enhance the effectiveness of these strategies. Insights gained from the research are poised to inform policymakers and legislators, paving the way for more effective and nuanced laws and policies. While the study’s focus is specific to the context of the UK, its insights hold broader relevance for decision-makers involved in evangelical organizations worldwide.