IPPFoRB Hosts High-Level Workshop at IRF Summit 2025

Parliamentarians join global advocates in Washington, D.C. to advance Freedom of Religion or Belief.

The International Panel of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief (IPPFoRB) hosted a high-level workshop on the second day of the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit 2025 in Washington, D.C.

Held under the theme “Building Bridges to Protect and Promote Freedom of Religion or Belief,” the annual event brought together global experts and, for the first time, featured a dedicated parliamentarian track — a curated program of sessions and workshops specifically tailored for legislative leaders, organized in collaboration with IPPFoRB.

THE PARLIAMENTARIAN’S ROLE

This milestone highlighted the growing recognition of parliamentarians as key actors in the global movement to advance freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), and offered a unique platform for lawmakers to exchange experiences, deepen knowledge, and strengthen networks for action.

IPPFoRB Workshop at IRF Summit 2025, Washington DC. Photo: Amanda Barth Gulbrandsen / IPPFoRB

A COLLABORATIVE CALL TO ACTION

The workshop opened with welcoming remarks from Fernanda San Martin, Director of IPPFoRB, who introduced the session by reaffirming the organization’s mission: to empower Members of Parliament worldwide with the networks, tools, and knowledge they need to promote freedom of religion or belief in increasingly complex political environments.

Kristina Arriaga, former Vice-Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, laid the foundation with a compelling overview of FoRB as a cornerstone of democratic and human rights frameworks. She emphasized the need for vigilance as religious freedom faces growing global threats.

Former Turkish MP Dr. Aykan Erdemir spoke about the unique role of parliamentarians in defending pluralism, drawing from his experience as a founding IPPFoRB member and his current role at the Anti-Defamation League. He reflected on the importance of political leadership in protecting pluralism and religious freedom, especially in politically sensitive contexts.

Closing the panel, Joelle Fiss, human rights analyst and Geneva Parliament member, explored how FoRB intersects with broader human rights, urging more inclusive and intersectional advocacy.

DIALOGUE THAT BUILDS BRIDGES

The session ended with an engaging Q&A that invited attendees to share perspectives and explore practical strategies for legislative action.

IPPFoRB’s presence at the IRF Summit 2025 marked a significant milestone in its mission to strengthen global parliamentary engagement on FoRB. By bringing new voices to the table and fostering high-level dialogue, the organization continues to build bridges across sectors, regions, and belief systems in defense of one of the world’s most essential freedoms.