USCIRF Welcomes the Holy See's Commitment to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief for the Persecuted

USCIRF Welcomes the Holy See's Commitment to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief for the Persecuted

Washington, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is encouraged by the Holy See's commitment to raise the plight of persecuted religious communities. In the early days of his papacy, Pope Leo XIV has expressed an interest in continuing the Vatican’s work to advance international religious freedom.

“USCIRF commends His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for highlighting the importance of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) for persecuted religious communities,” said Chair Stephen Schneck. “Throughout the world, we are seeing a significant rise of religious persecution against Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and other religious minorities. It is heartening to see His Holiness speak forcefully on religious freedom so early on in his pontificate.” 

Pope Leo, the first American Pontiff, noted in his inaugural May 8 speech the importance of building “bridges and dialogue.” He has since raised concerns on displaced Christians in the Middle East, religious freedom challenges in Ukraine, and Christians supporting reconciliation efforts in their local communities. Pope Leo also reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to combatting antisemitism.

“We are hopeful that Pope Leo’s expressed concern for international religious freedom, including the fight against antisemitism, will bring greater tolerance and respect for the rights of persecuted religious communities,” said  Vice Chair Meir Soloveichik. “The ability to practice one’s faith openly and freely is a universal right that must be defended and protected.”

###   

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan legislative branch agency established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze, and report on religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at [email protected].