The issue of international religious freedom touches every culture, nation, religion, and political system. At present, almost 80 percent of the world’s inhabitants live in countries where there are high levels of governmental or societal restrictions on religion, and restrictions have been steadily increasing for several years. The implications of this reality touches every area of life.
The IRF Summit 2023 will bring together a broad coalition that passionately supports religious freedom around the globe for a three-day-in-person event in Washington D.C., January 31st and February 1st.
Together we will raise the profile of international religious freedom on a wide variety of issues using an array of mechanisms best suited for each circumstance. The Summit will connect resources and advocates interested in religious freedom and highlight the personal testimonies of survivors of religious persecution and restrictions on religious freedom.
Bringing attention to the plight of religious adherents who are persecuted, individually and collectively, will grow the grassroots and global movement for religious freedom. Breakout sessions hosted by the convening partners will go deep on important IRF topics.
Together we will gain political support for the global religious freedom movement and embolden civil society, people of faith, and governments to take a stand for religious freedom.
Summit Co-Chairs
Sam Brownback
Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, 2018-2021
Co-Chair of IRF Summit 2021 Steering Committee
Katrina Lantos Swett
President of the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights
Co-Chair of IRF Summit 2021 Steering Committee
Mike McCaul (TX-10)
Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee
Honorary Congressional Co-Chair of the IRF Summit 2023
Gregory Meeks (NY-5)
Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee
Honorary Congressional Co-Chair of the IRF Summit 2023
Roger Wicker (MS)
Honorary Senate Co-Chair of the IRF Summit 2023
Jacky Rosen (ND)
Honorary Senate Co-Chair of the IRF Summit 2023
