International Relations and Religious Freedom: Reflection from Berlin and Prague
Communicate, Understand, Collaborate
by Ruth Mesfin Getachew, 2024 Fall Associate
As an international student in a multicultural environment, I am surrounded by diversity daily. My peers come from all over the world, each bringing unique histories, cultures, and perspectives. In this “international bubble” we share a common bond: we are all “outsiders” from varied corners of the world, finding connection in our differences.
However, attending two international conferences with IRF Secretariat focusing on freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), held in Berlin and Prague, introduced me to a new dimension of diversity—one that goes beyond geography and culture. In these spaces, I met individuals for whom religion was not just a belief but the essence of who they are. Faith was central to their identity, shaping their lives and fueling their advocacy.
The two events served as key platforms for interfaith and intercultural dialogue to bring together civil society and government. Throughout the gatherings, the urgent call to bridge divides among these entities and communities was addressed, alongside the need to foster collaboration to combat extremism and violent radical ideologies.
Being in the FoRB space, I encountered people from religious minorities who were fighting passionately for their right to express and practice their beliefs. For them, this was not just about their own freedom but about standing up for their communities. In one discussion, someone remarked, “Every religion is a minority somewhere.” This insight resonated deeply with me as I listened to stories of resilience and determination.
These conversations were profound, far beyond casual exchanges but expanded my understanding of identity, revealing how deeply intertwined religious belief and personal truth can be. Together, in those moments, we were united by a shared hope, an ambition under which Sheikh Al Mahfoudh Bin Bayyah said we are all considered a “Prisoner of Hope”, as we each desire a world where everyone has the freedom to live their faith authentically—without fear, without barriers, and without compromise.
The first event unfolded in Berlin at the iconic Adlon Kempinski Hotel from October 8th to October 10th. The shared mission of the civil society organizations that came together was to foster understanding, create safe spaces for dialogue, and address the complex challenges of religious freedom and coexistence. With the topic of “How FoRB can Help Prevent the Misuse of Religion and Build Social Cohesion and Resilience” we see the shared mission come to life.
The second event was hosted at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic in Prague on November 14th. The “Intercultural and Interfaith Dialogue” conference brought together experts, policymakers, diplomats, religious leaders, and civil society to explore how freedom of religion or belief can foster peace, counter radical ideologies, and address Islamophobia. Speakers highlighted strategies such as inclusive policies, community engagement, and education to combat discrimination and prevent radicalization.
Both conferences concluded with a session dedicated to reflection and strategy, as participants synthesized insights from their discussions and planned actionable steps for the future. These events are more than conferences; they are critical touchpoints for dialogue and collaboration among diverse actors. They serve as spaces where governments, civil society, and religious representatives can come together to push for a world free of violent radical ideologies while also bridging gaps across religious divides. The significance lies in the aim to ensure inclusivity, making room for individuals of all faiths—including those of no faith—to coexist in mutual respect and understanding.
Berlin: “How FoRB Can Help Prevent the Misuse of Religion and Build Social Cohesion and Resilience: Civil Society Program”
During the conference held in Berlin we focused on sharing diverse experiences and initiatives from the Euro-Asia and MENA regions through two panel discussions. These panels combined government officials, national and local faith leaders, and representatives from various initiatives, such as the Euro-Asia Women of Faith Engagement. The discussions highlighted shared lived experiences and ongoing efforts, offering a comprehensive look at the impactful work being done across these regions. Following these panels, the event shifted to a “What Needs To Be Done” segment. This session focused on translating the insights from the panels into actionable plans. Representatives from initiatives like the IRF Secretariat’s Academic Council, Corporate Council, and Media Council presented their strategies and visions for the future, outlining steps to move forward collaboratively.
From the three councils, I had the privilege of interviewing one of the Academic Council members, Dr. Pavol Bargar, who currently works at the Protestant Theological Faculty of Charles University in Prague. His research interests encompass theology and culture, theological anthropology, and missiology/intercultural theology.
The Academic Council
This Academic Council represents a pioneering collaboration across five distinct academic disciplines: political science, anthropology and history, sociology, theology, and religious studies. Rather than being tied to a specific institution or university, it operates as a global network of individuals from different backgrounds, countries, and institutions, aiming to foster impactful research and promote inclusive representation on a global scale.
The council provides a platform for researchers to collaborate on projects designed to make a tangible difference. Its initiatives specifically aim to:
Represent voices from different regions and contexts.
Offer space for impactful research and encourage global awareness.
Provide opportunities for individuals to present their work and bring their ideas to life.
Receiving grants and working on researches and policy in a bigger level with Practical and Long-Term Impact
Create avenues for feedback and engagement through events and partnerships.
As we see in the Academic Council; what sets it apart from different research institutes is its unique structure and mission. Unlike traditional councils tied to academic institutions, it operates as part of an NGO and civil society initiative. This independence allows it to function as a virtual global network from all over the world, bringing different institutes together. Another key element that differentiates this body is its “sister councils,”the Global Corporate Council and Global MediaCouncilconvened under the same umbrella institution, IRF Secretariat.
The council’s work likewise spans both practical and theoretical dimensions, with timelines varying based on project scope. Its global perspective allows it to address complex international cases and contribute to meaningful change.
"I want to see how scholarship is put in service of improving people’s lives."
Dr. Pavol Bargar
The Academic Council aims to embody this vision, striving for research and collaboration that bridges academia and real-world impact. Meanwhile, the Corporate Council centers on creating mutual benefits of corporations while fostering a FoRB movement to uplift individuals within corporations and their communities. Then, the Media Council covers outreach strategies, emphasizing how content can inspire people and amplifying the need for FoRB.. Although the Corporate and Media Councils’ efforts were introduced briefly in this piece, I hope we will hear more about their work in future blogs.
Prague: “Intercultural and Interfaith Dialogue: Freedom of Religion or Belief to Build Peace and Counter Islamophobia and Radical Ideologies”
To foster growth and create an environment where development thrives, we must first confront differences and build a foundation of mutual respect for human dignity.
“Instability opens the door to discrimination and further instability.”
This was the goal of the Prague conference,to explore the meaning of religious freedom in today’s complex world and to establish a space for openness and constructive criticism. Participants aimed to strategize ways to combat hate and discrimination while drafting actionable ideas for social policies that promote mutual understanding. A central focus was also placed on creating a space for interfaith dialogue—not as a mere exchange of words, but as a meaningful interaction rooted in embracing diversity and nurturing true understanding.
With these guiding principles, the stage was set for deeper discussions on the foundation and implications of radicalism, and how societies can collectively counter its most harmful manifestations.
So that brings us to the question of what exactly are “Radical Ideologies”? Historically, the term "radical" represented a call for transformative change within society. Its source can be traced to late 18th-century England, where figures like Charles James Fox championed "radical reform," advocating for universal manhood suffrage as part of a broader movement for parliamentary change. Radicals, aligned with the Whigs, were instrumental in shaping key reforms, from the Reform Act of 1832 to the working-class suffrage expansion in 1867. Their efforts solidified alliances with emerging trade unions, ultimately shaping the foundations of the Liberal Party in the Victorian era.
As a sociology student who has read the works of Karl Marx and Max Weber, I have noticed that radical movements are often vehicles for societal transformation. Both theorists viewed such movements as inevitable responses to structural inequalities, aiming to challenge and reimagine the social order. Radicalism, in this sense, is deeply entwined with the history of class struggles, labor rights, and societal progress.
Yet, in religious spaces, radical beliefs often hold a varying interpretation. Here, taking a strong, unwavering stand is frequently perceived as being against the broader societal fabric. Rather than fostering collective progress, radical religious ideologies are commonly seen as divisive or destabilizing, challenging not only the status quo but the very idea of social cohesion.
It’s important to note, however, that not all religious radicalism is inherently anti-society or violent. Unfortunately, the weight of stereotypes surrounding religious extremism often leads us to view all radical stands as dangerous or harmful. This bias oversimplifies the concept, ignoring the nuanced ways in which some radical beliefs can be transformative or rooted in advocacy for justice.
"Radical on its own doesn’t mean violence." - Tasnim Butt; Director. Institut de promotion des formations sur L’islam, Belgium.
If we say that the term radical does not inherently mean violence, how can we better understand it? Differentiating radical movements requires examining the underlying factors that fuel them. Asking critical questions like “What are the drivers of radicalism?” helps unpack the motivations behind these movements.
During the conference in Prague, several key drivers behind radicalism were highlighted. Among them were the need to belong, as individuals often seek communities that offer purpose and identity. Mental health issues, trauma, and varied life experiences were also cited as significant factors, since they can shape how people process and react to their environments. Additionally, the notion of radicalism as a binary choice—“You are either with us or against us”—was discussed, illustrating how people may feel compelled to choose sides in polarized contexts.
These drivers remind us that radicalism is rarely a singular phenomenon; it is complex, multi-layered, and often deeply personal. Understanding these roots can help differentiate between radical movements that advocate for constructive change and those that lean toward violence or exclusion.
“Understanding that the world doesn't function in black and white is key to embracing diversity and fostering acceptance in this space.”
To truly address radicalism and its drivers, we must foster spaces where interfaith and intercultural dialogue is not only possible but encouraged. Creating such spaces allows individuals and communities to share their stories, confront biases, and build understanding across differences. At the conference, Mohamed Elsanousi, theExecutive Director of the Network of Religious and Traditional Peacemakers and Commissioner for the U.S. Commission of International Religious Freedom, emphasized the importance of this approach by sharing his work in creating spaces for young men who are drawn to radical ideologies. His model is grounded in three foundational pillars: Prevention, Innovation, and Ejection.
At the heart of these discussions was the acknowledgment that dialogue is not just about debate, but about understanding. A recurring theme was that we must “acknowledge and accept people for who they are before addressing issues” as a reminder that constructive conversations should not jump straight to criticism but instead start with empathy and mutual respect. Participants explored how religion can be a source of personal motivation and, at times, inspire individuals to create change and make a difference. This highlights the importance of creating points of contact between diverse communities and fostering religious conversations in shared languages that bridge gaps, rather than widen them.
Additionally, the value of involving individuals with lived experiences rather than solely those representing institutional religion was underscored. This grounded the dialogue in authenticity, ensuring that discussions were reflective of real-world challenges and aspirations. Interfaith dialogue emerged as a powerful tool in the fight against hate, extremism, and discrimination. Its potential lies in its ability to: Bring People Together, Find Common Enemy, “Aid for development” and Create Space to Disagree and Agree.
This approach recognizes that understanding both the advantages and disadvantages of differing views can lead to more balanced and sustainable solutions. Interfaith dialogue benefits not from a singular approach but from a mosaic of voices, each contributing to a larger vision of unity and tolerance.
Behind the Scenes
Diplomatic relations often unfold prominently on the surface through formal discussions and agreements, but the true essence of connection lies in the details behind the scenes. The privilege to see this from the backstage revealed how every small, deliberate action whether crafting social media posts, refining publications, or tailoring advertisements play a critical role in building trust and fostering collaboration. These seemingly minor details were not just tasks; they were reflections of the shared commitment to making every attendee feel valued and engaged. As Sharyn Runyon, the Global Marketing and PR Advisor for the IRF Secretariat, said,
“The key is to create a distraction-free environment where participants feel truly valued. When people feel important, they are better able to grasp the importance of the cause itself. It’s about making EVERYONE feel that their contribution matters - because it does, they’re integral to the work being done.
At the same time, we ensure they’re not overwhelmed. Instead, we emphasize that everyone is equally important and has a role to play.”
This behind-the-scenes precision is what ultimately strengthens the fabric of international relationships, turning surface-level interactions into meaningful, lasting connections.
What is Next? How Can We Foster a Long-Lasting Relationship and Impact After This?
The FoRB movement has a long history, but its momentum has grown significantly over the past 5 to 10 years, driven by efforts in spaces like Berlin and Prague to address critical issues. These conversations continue to evolve as individuals and communities work to sustain progress. Achieving global reach requires regional and subregional interventions, particularly through partnerships with governments. Practical initiatives such as roundtables, intercultural dialogues, and programs promoting religious literacy can foster long-term tolerance and mutual understanding. A key driver of success is the creation of learning communities that are open to new ideas and committed to applying them in practice. Over time, these communities can evolve into ecosystems capable of driving sustainable, long-term change. By focusing on community-based models that account for historical and cultural contexts, the movement can develop a deeper understanding of rights, challenges, and opportunities, paving the way for meaningful progress in promoting religious freedom.
To explore how to continue this progress, we talked to Simran Stuelpnagel,Vice Chair and Head of the Global Corporate Council and here is a summary of the interview.
Every Religion has the universal "Golden Rule": to love your neighbor as yourself, This goes to ‘Even when they look or believe differently than you’. As individuals this is all we have to go to foster freedom of Religion and Belief “Stand up for someone different from you. Different people, different beliefs, same humanity.”
This simple principle underpins the call to action for multifaith collaboration, as seen in efforts like the Article 18 Alliance, which brings together governments and civil society for honest conversations and meaningful action. “Some people misunderstood it as a movement that lets religious institutions impose their will on the general public and it gets missed as a tool of government ideology for pushing narratives. But it is to keep people's dignity of the individual and the freedom of conscience and choice as a foundation of liberty.”
The first event focused on fostering social cohesion, building resilience, and promoting mutual respect for the inherent dignity of all people. The second conference, however, emphasized that now that we’ve established a foundation, it’s time to have the difficult conversations. Both approaches are essential in fostering meaningful relationships between governments, civil society, and religious institutions.
I will leave you with this quote from Bell Hooks in All About Love: “Were a love ethic informing all public policy in cities and towns, individuals would come together and map out programs that would affect the good of everyone.” This principle aligns deeply with the pursuit of religious freedom and religious equality, as fostering such an ethic promotes mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration across diverse beliefs. By prioritizing compassion and inclusivity in policymaking, societies can create spaces where freedom of religion or belief is not just protected but celebrated as a cornerstone of collective well-being. We live in a world of diversity, and color. If we strive to love our neighbor as ourselves and fight for their rights with the same passion as we fight for our own, we can create a world where love shines brightly and reveals its true power.
Sources
Britannica. (n.d.). Radical: Political theory, social change & activism. Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved 12.2024, Radical | Political Theory, Social Change & Activism | Britannica
Britannica. (n.d.). Charles James Fox: British statesman & Whig leader. Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved 12.2024, Charles James Fox | British Statesman & Whig Leader | Britannica
Britannica. (n.d.). Whig and Tory: Definition, difference, history, & facts. Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved 12.2024, Whig and Tory | Definition, Difference, History, & Facts | Britannica
Institute of International Relations Prague. (n.d.). Intercultural and interfaith dialogue: Freedom of religion or belief to build peace and counter Islamophobia and radical ideologies. Expertise to Impact. Retrieved 12.2024, Intercultural and Interfaith Dialogue: Freedom of Religion or Belief to Build Peace and Counter Islamophobia and Radical Ideologies | Institute of International Relations Prague - Expertise to impact
