USCIRF Marks International Religious Freedom Day, Calls for Release of Religious Prisoners

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) observed the 26th anniversary of the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) by emphasizing the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right.

USCIRF Chair Stephen Schneck highlighted the progress made in promoting religious freedom globally, but also stressed the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities worldwide. He called for continued efforts to advocate for the release of religious prisoners of conscience and to address the persecution of religious groups.

A key tool in USCIRF’s advocacy efforts is the Frank R. Wolf Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) Victims List, an online database that documents individuals imprisoned or persecuted for their religious beliefs. The Commission uses this list to advocate for the release of these individuals and to raise awareness of their plight.

In its 2024 Annual Report, USCIRF recommended several countries for designation as Countries of Particular Concern (CPCs) and Special Watch List (SWL) countries due to their severe violations of religious freedom. The Commission also urged the U.S. government to prioritize the release of religious prisoners of conscience in its diplomatic engagements.

USCIRF remains committed to monitoring religious freedom conditions globally and advocating for the protection of this fundamental human right.