ABSTRACT
Upon considering the relationship between the forum externum and the forum internum, the external manifestation of a belief appears to be an easier right to explain. The purpose of this chapter on the forum externum is to develop a broader understanding of belief in accordance with the intention of the treaties. The asserted belief is linked to an axiomatic belief system developed in the forum internum that is comparable in status and importance to religious beliefs. A manifested conscientious belief is one where the individual is relying on clearly pre-determined principles that are comparable to a religious directive. The consequences for the right to conscience, when considering an approach that centres on religion as a basis for the right, are manifold. The truth aspect of expression highlights the distinction between the manifestation of a thought and the manifestation of a conscientious belief.
