Plans for a high-level world congress on religious freedom have taken on even greater significance in light of recent global events, says John Graz secretary general of the International Religious Liberty Association.
Plans for a high-level world congress on religious freedom have taken on even greater significance in light of recent global events, says John Graz, secretary-general of the International Religious Liberty Association.
“The world congress is held every five years, so this is our premier event,” says Graz, who adds that “more than ever religious freedom and the need to develop tolerance are the key issues in today’s society. We believe that religious freedom is the best answer to religious fanaticism and anti-religious ideologies.”
The congress will convene in Manila, Philippines, from June 10 to 13 and will bring together diplomats, experts, and religious leaders to examine “Religious Freedom: A Basis for Peace and Justice.” Speakers include president of the Philippines Dr. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, United Nations Undersecretary General Ambassador Joseph Verner Reed, and United Nations Special Rapporteur on Religious Intolerance Professor Abdelfattah Amor, along with many other high-level representatives, government officials, and scholars from more than 50 countries. The most recent world congress was held in Rio de Janeiro in 1997.
“In today’s global community, religious freedom is under great threat,” comments Jonathan Gallagher, communication director for the IRLA. “Religion-inspired violence is on the increase, with extremism and intolerance becoming the norm. We believe this vital world congress will provide the opportunity for people of many faiths to interact and to work together on solutions.”
Chartered in 1893, the IRLA has promoted and defended religious freedom for 109 years. Various religious traditions are represented on the Board of Directors, while the presidency rotates annually among a panel of vice presidents. The current president is Dr. Denton Lotz, general secretary of the Baptist World Alliance. The IRLA has no paid staff and officers and directors serve voluntarily. Funding for IRLA operations comes from organizations supportive of the association’s purpose. The IRLA was originally organized by leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church; however its purpose is universal and non-sectarian, seeking to address religious freedom concerns from all faith communities. More information about the IRLA and the world congress can be found at www.irla.org.
