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.”

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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]. 

The religious freedom situation in Azerbaijan remains highly restricted. The government subjects virtually all religious practices to intrusive state oversight. Shi'a Muslims who do not operate within the government's preferred boundaries have faced imprisonment on dubious charges. Armenian religious sites in Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding regions remain threatened since Azerbaijan regained control. In its 2025 Annual Report, USCIRF recommended that the U.S. Department of State maintain Azerbaijan on the Special Watch List for severe violations of religious freedom.

On today’s episode of the USCIRF Spotlight Podcast, USCIRF Chair Stephen Schneck, Commissioner Mohamed Elsanousi, and Commissioner Vicky Hartzler join Director of Research and Policy Guillermo Cantor to discuss their recent travels to Azerbaijan.

Read USCIRF’s 2025 Annual Report Chapter on Azerbaijan and USCIRF’s most recent Azerbaijan Country Update.

USCIRF Expresses Gratitude to Outgoing Commissioner Susie Gelman

Washington, DC – The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) expresses sincere gratitude to Susie Gelman for her dedication to advancing freedom of religion or belief abroad during her time as a USCIRF Commissioner. 

“It has been a privilege working with Susie Gelman as a fellow Commissioner, and we wish her well as she concludes her term,” said Chair Stephen Schneck. “The work of the Commission greatly benefitted from her invaluable contributions and insight from her years of experience working with religious communities, in particular the Jewish community. On a personal note, I shall miss her wisdom and friendship.”

Susie Gelman has made significant contributions to the field of religious freedom and related fields. During her time at the Commission, she participated in many USCIRF-held hearings, external events, and Congressional briefings. 

“It was an honor to work with Susie Gelman on our shared commitment to protecting religious freedom abroad,” said Vice Chair Meir Soloveichik. “As USCIRF bids farewell to Susie, the Commission looks forward to continuing its mission promoting policies that protect this fundamental freedom for everyone, inspired by her commitment and leadership.”

USCIRF is comprised of nine private sector Commissioners who volunteer their time to support USCIRF’s mandate. The International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 mandates that three Commissioners are selected by the President of the United States, three from the U.S. Senate, and three from the U.S. House of Representatives.

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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].