The International Religious Freedom Summit took place between the 31st of January and the 2nd of February to highlight the issue of religious freedom for everyone, everywhere and always.  

With an upturn in global unrest over the last year, organizers believe religious freedom is not only a fundamental human right but also an important foreign policy issue. 

“The United States must continue to be a voice for the voiceless who are persecuted for their beliefs,” said Rep. Mike McCaul (R-TX) during the opening session of the IRF Summit. 

“In our very diverse world, unless the right to religious freedom exists for everyone, it doesn’t truly exist for anyone,” said Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA).

“Protecting religious freedom is not just about doing what’s right; it’s also a matter of national security. By resolving conflict, we can help prevent terrorism at home and abroad. As religious freedoms advance, conflict recedes,” said McCaul.

Tristan Azbej expressed his gratitude on his Facebook page for having the opportunity of participating in the conference. He writes:

“It was a great honour to talk to leaders and decision-makers in the capital of the U.S. about what I got to know from persecuted Christians living in crisis zones and places affected by terror attacks.”

In his speech, he highlighted that the persecuted communities must be supported in their home country. He mentioned the example of the Hungary Helps Program, through which the Hungarian government supported nearly a million people in the last few years. 

During his visit to Washington D.C., he participated in a special event entitled “Can Governments and Religious Actors Save Persecuted Lives Together? – The Hungarian Model” held at the Embassy of Hungary in the U.S. on the 1st of February. Azbej shared his views on the best practices for protecting Christian communities and religious-cultural heritage worldwide through the Hungary Helps Program. 

Source, photo: Facebook/Tristan Azbej