International Day of Religious Freedom in America, Reaffirming Commitment to Human Rights and Global Solidarity
The United States today commemorated the International Day of Religious Freedom and emphasized the importance of protecting religious freedom both within and beyond the country’s borders.
October 27, 2025, corresponding to Aban 5, 1404, the United States commemorated the International Day of Religious Freedom on the occasion of the adoption of the International Religious Freedom Act in 1998. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the status of religious freedom at the global level and to reaffirm commitment to supporting human rights for followers of all religions.
Bishop Elias Zaidan, chairman of the Committee for International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Bishop Kevin Rhodes, chairman of the Committee for Religious Freedom of the conference, stated in a joint statement: “We must stand alongside our brothers and sisters who are suffering and firmly resolve to promote religious freedom for all people throughout the world.”
They emphasized that religious persecution and harassment are obstacles to the peaceful development of societies and stressed the necessity of global solidarity in confronting these challenges.
The 2025 annual report by the Aid to the Church in Need foundation shows that over 5 billion people in various countries face serious violations of religious freedom. This report, the largest of its kind, emphasizes the need for international measures to address these violations.
The United States government, in line with promoting religious freedom, has placed various measures on its agenda. These measures include the appointment of a special representative for international religious freedom and the holding of international meetings for dialogue and cooperation in this field.
The International Day of Religious Freedom in America is not only an opportunity to commemorate human rights, but also a reminder that religious freedom should be respected in all societies. Global solidarity and effective measures can help achieve this goal and prevent violations of human rights.
