International Religious Freedom Day in the US, a renewed commitment to human rights and global solidarity
The United States today commemorated International Religious Freedom Day and emphasized the importance of protecting religious freedom at home and abroad.
Today, October 27, 2025, the United States commemorates International Religious Freedom Day, commemorating the passage of the International Religious Freedom Act in 1998. The day is an opportunity to reflect on the state of religious freedom globally and to renew our commitment to protecting the human rights of followers of all faiths.
Bishop Elias Zaydan, chairman of the Committee on International Justice and Peace of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), and Bishop Kevin Rhodes, chairman of the conference's Committee on Religious Liberty, said in a joint statement: "We must stand with our brothers and sisters who are suffering and reaffirm our determination to promote religious freedom for all people around the world."
They emphasized that religious oppression and persecution are an obstacle to the peaceful development of societies and stressed the need for global solidarity in addressing these challenges.
Aid to the Church in Need’s 2025 annual report shows that more than 5 billion people in different countries face serious violations of religious freedom. The report, the largest of its kind, emphasizes the need for international action to address these violations.
The United States government has taken various steps to promote religious freedom, including appointing a Special Representative for International Religious Freedom and holding international meetings to exchange views and cooperate in this area.
International Religious Freedom Day in the United States is not only an opportunity to celebrate human rights, but also a reminder that religious freedom must be respected in all societies. Global solidarity and effective action can help achieve this goal and prevent human rights violations.
