Report highlights global religious persecution
An annual report from the U. S. Commission on International Religious Freedom reveals widespread persecution of people of faith around the world.
The commission recommends the State Department identify 16 nations as “countries of particular concern” for severe violations of religious freedom, including torture and arbitrary detention.
The 16 countries on this list include India, China, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Russia, among others.
Nicaragua and Cuba are the only countries mentioned in the Americas.
The report urges President Donald Trump to prioritize religious freedom in foreign policy.
It emphasizes the need for collaboration with other countries sharing similar values.
Additionally, 12 other countries face severe religious freedom violations but do not meet the criteria for the “country of particular concern” designation, such as Egypt and Turkey.
Overall, the report shows that while freedom of religion is recognized in the U. S., it is not enjoyed by the majority globally, affecting about 4. 5 billion people.
The report underscores serious concerns regarding religious freedom violations worldwide, prompting calls for action from U. S. leadership.