The persecution of atheists and ex-Muslims is not a relic of the past, but an ongoing global reality sustained by both legal systems and social pressures. From historical suppression to modern-day stigma, arrests and enforced disappearances, there is a clear pattern where those who disbelieve in god(s) are still treated as threats rather than individuals exercising a basic human right.
For Ex-Muslims International, this is precisely why Atheist Day matters. It is not only a celebration of disbelief, but an act of recognition and solidarity with those who cannot express themselves freely or safely. It affirms that the freedom to think, to question, and to live without imposed beliefs are human rights — ones that must be defended and made visible.
What is Atheist Day and why do we honor it?
Celebrated on March 23rd, Atheist Day was created by an international coalition of Ex-Muslims. It is a day to stand for the right to freedom from religion, to celebrate and normalize atheism, and to stand in solidarity with those who must hide their beliefs for self-preservation.
While atheism is often framed as a modern or Western phenomenon, history tells a different story. From early skeptics in the Islamic world to contemporary ex-Muslims, freethinkers have long existed – often at great personal risk. Today, that struggle continues around the world. Atheists and ex-Muslims in many parts of the world still face social exclusion, legal persecution, and violence simply for their beliefs.
59% of ex-Muslims identify as atheists on exmuslim.me, the first ever global map of stories built by and for ex-Muslims.
In this context, Atheist Day is not only a celebration, but an act of recognition. It is a reminder that the freedom to question, to doubt, and to disbelieve is neither new nor universally protected. It is an inherent right that has always existed – and one that must still be defended.
Across several Islamic countries including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, Afghanistan and Pakistan, anti-apostasy and anti-blasphemy laws are used to criminalize disbelief, restrict expression (Free Betty), silence dissent, and justify persecution. Recent developments in Egypt illustrate this reality with the state-sanctioned disappearances, arrests and imprisonment of Ex-Muslims and atheists.
#FreeSherif: Egypt’s Islamic government violates human right to atheism
Ex-MI coalition members are alarmed by Egypt’s escalating crackdown on Ex-Muslims and atheists. Egypt is also using online campaigns to persecute people who advocate for freedom of speech, expression and belief, like Egyptian atheist activist Sherif Gaber.
Ex-Muslims International and the Council of Ex-Muslims of Britain issued an urgent alert citing credible reports that Sherif Gaber was arrested on November 4, 2025. Details remain unknown as the Egyptian authorities have provided no official confirmation of why he is detained or where he is being held. Amnesty International reported people have been arrested in Egypt and may face up to five years in prison “for having posted online content expressing religious views that do not align with state-sanctioned religious narratives, or simply for being members of social media groups discussing atheism and agnosticism and criticising mainstream religious beliefs.”
If you work with lawyers and government officials, please have them contact Egyptian ambassadors and embassies in your country, and urge them to free Sherif and all Ex-Muslims, atheists and activists in Egypt!
Atheist Day is a reminder that disbelief is a human right and yet, a danger in one too many homes, communities and countries. Freedom of belief must include freedom from belief. As we celebrate Atheist Day, we also stand in solidarity with those who cannot by amplifying their voices, demanding their freedom, and working toward a world where no one is punished for disbelief.
Belief is not a requirement. Freedom is.
Celebrate disbelief and speak up for those who can’t.
Happy Atheist Day!
Poem by an Ex-Muslim for Sherif Gaber on Atheist Day
Apostate
My values are my bones,
That hold me upright.
My free mind is my air,
A crisp morning dew.
My voice is my birdsong,
A song I must sing.
Your cage made of honour,
Or so you would say.
The blood of my scholars,
Of brothers and friends.
Broken feathers astrew,
My sister’s lost wings.
You hunt me with the shame,
Of your fearful creed.
You strangle my throat,
Still my voice plants seeds.
My brothers and sisters,
Repeat after me.
My values are my bones,
That hold me upright.
My free mind is my air,
A crisp morning dew.
My voice is my birdsong,
A song I must sing.