The Intersection of Religious Freedom and Freedom of Expression
The Impact of Blasphemy Laws Abroad
Recent years have seen a rise in the passage and enforcement of blasphemy laws in countries including Pakistan, Sudan and Saudi Arabia. On May 26, the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission and the Senate Human Rights Caucus held a discussion co-sponsored by the U.S. Institute of Peace and Freedom House.
Panelists examined the impact of these blasphemy laws, the suppression of religious freedom, and actions policymakers can take to support the freedoms of religion, belief, and expression.
The Senate Human Rights Caucus is co-chaired by Senators Chris Coons and Mark Kirk. The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission is co-chaired by Congressmen Joseph R. Pitts and James P. McGovern.
Speakers
Arsalan Suleman
Acting U.S. Envoy to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Department of State
Mark Lagon
President, Freedom House
Elizabeth Cassidy
Acting Co-Director for Policy and Research, U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom
Susan Hayward, Moderator
Director for Religion & Inclusive Societies, U.S. Institute of Peace