CSW welcomes confirmation of US ambassador for religious freedom

CSW welcomes the US Senates confirmation of Mr Rashad Hussain as the new US Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom (IRF).

He is the first Muslim to hold the post of IRF Ambassador and has a proven track record of standing up for the right to freedom of religion or belief, particularly in combatting anti-Semitism and hostility towards Christians and other religious minorities in countries around the world.

Mr Hussain previously served as White House Counsel under President Barack Obama, US Special Envoy to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and US Special Envoy for the Center for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications.

CSW-USA’s Chief Executive Kori Porter said: “CSWwarmly congratulates Rashad Hussain on his confirmation as the next US ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom. It was a pleasure to meet him recently and discuss issues. I look forward to working closely with him on these and other concerns that impact the realisation of the right to freedom of religion or belief globally.”

CSW’s Founder President Mervyn Thomas said: “Mr Hussain’s confirmation is welcome news at a time when challenges to the enjoyment of the right to freedom of religion or belief remain acute. When I met with Mr Hussain it was clear that he is a dedicated advocate for religious minority communities. I look forward to working with him at the upcoming UK Ministerial, and to supporting his work to ensure that the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief is kept high on the Biden administration’s agenda.”