One of the things you made happen this year was the reauthorization of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCRIF).
Religious freedom is a cornerstone of human rights and an essential element of peaceful societies. Yet, across the globe, millions of individuals face persecution simply because of their beliefs. The USCIRF stands as a vital institution dedicated to combating religious oppression and advocating for the rights of all people to believe—or not believe—as they choose. Its work is more important today than ever before.
What Is USCIRF?
USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan federal body established by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. Its mandate is straightforward but critical: to monitor violations of religious freedom worldwide and provide actionable recommendations to the U.S. government, including Congress, the President, and the Department of State. Unlike many governmental agencies, USCIRF operates outside the influence of political agendas, focusing solely on promoting and defending religious liberty.
Why Does Religious Freedom Matter?
Religious freedom is not only a fundamental human right but also a keystone of democratic stability and societal harmony. Societies that uphold religious liberty tend to experience greater peace, economic growth, and social cohesion. Conversely, the absence of religious freedom often correlates with violence, repression, and authoritarian rule. By protecting this right, USCIRF plays a crucial role in fostering global stability and human dignity.
The Work of USCIRF
USCIRF’s work spans several critical areas:
1. Monitoring Global Violations
USCIRF identifies and documents violations of religious freedom worldwide. It highlights countries where governments or non-state actors engage in systematic, ongoing, and egregious abuses. These include imprisonment, torture, forced conversions, and violence against religious communities.
2. Country Designations and Recommendations
Based on its findings, USCIRF recommends the designation of “Countries of Particular Concern” (CPCs) and “Special Watch List” countries. These designations guide U.S. foreign policy and ensure accountability for nations that perpetrate or tolerate religious persecution.
3. Advocacy and Diplomacy
USCIRF advocates for prisoners of conscience, works to elevate the voices of persecuted communities, and engages with international partners to address religious freedom violations. By shining a spotlight on abuses, USCIRF pressures oppressive regimes to reform.
4. Policy Recommendations
The Commission provides detailed recommendations to the U.S. government, including targeted sanctions, increased humanitarian aid, and diplomatic efforts to promote religious freedom.
Recent Achievements
USCIRF’s impact can be seen in tangible victories:
- Raising Awareness of the Uyghur Crisis: USCIRF has been instrumental in exposing the Chinese government’s systematic oppression of Uyghur Muslims, advocating for targeted sanctions and increased international scrutiny.
- Highlighting the Plight of Religious Minorities in Myanmar: The Commission has called attention to the persecution of Rohingya Muslims and Christian minorities, urging global action.
- Supporting Refugees: USCIRF’s work has helped shape U.S. policies to protect refugees fleeing religious persecution.
Challenges Ahead
While USCIRF has achieved much, the challenges it faces are daunting:
- Rising Authoritarianism: Many governments are using authoritarian measures to suppress religious freedom, from surveillance technologies to discriminatory laws.
- Non-State Actors: Groups like ISIS, Boko Haram, and other extremist organizations continue to target religious minorities.
- Global Apathy: Sustaining international focus on religious freedom issues remains a challenge amid competing global priorities.
Why Support USCIRF?
The work of USCIRF is indispensable for:
- Defending the Voiceless: It amplifies the voices of those who cannot advocate for themselves.
- Shaping Effective Policies: Its research and recommendations influence U.S. and international policies, ensuring they are grounded in human rights.
- Promoting Global Stability: By addressing the root causes of religious persecution, USCIRF helps prevent conflicts and foster peaceful coexistence.
The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom embodies the ideals of justice, equality, and compassion. Its tireless efforts remind us that religious freedom is not a privilege but a universal right. Supporting USCIRF means standing with countless individuals worldwide who are denied the freedom to worship, believe, or live according to their conscience. In a world where religious persecution remains rampant, USCIRF’s work is not just necessary—it is vital.
Here’s how you can help:
- Make a one-time donation: Every contribution helps us defend religious freedom.
- Become a monthly donor: By providing ongoing support, you help sustain advocacy and humanitarian initiatives long-term.
- Share the story: Raising awareness is vital. Spread the word with friends and family, and help us make the world aware of the problems people have practicing (or not) their faith.