Expressing concern regarding severe restrictions on religious freedom abroad.

This resolution expresses profound concern regarding severe restrictions on religious freedom in numerous countries, affirming the free exercise of religion as an inalienable right and citing international covenants. It highlights that the United States contributes significantly to protecting religious minorities globally and maintains diplomatic relationships with nations that engage in or tolerate severe violations of religious freedom. The resolution notes recommendations from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom for designating several countries, including Algeria, Azerbaijan, Egypt, and others, for severe religious freedom violations, detailing specific abuses such as prosecution under blasphemy laws, closure of places of worship, and persecution of minority communities. The resolution calls for the United States to actively maintain its global leadership in advancing religious freedom abroad. It urges the Secretary of State to engage robustly with allies and partners on this issue, recognizing that promoting religious freedom supports societal prosperity and strengthens U.S. strategic partnerships. Furthermore, it affirms the critical importance of the offices of the Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom and the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism in these efforts.