By Marianna Richardson
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On Tuesday, February 3rd, the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit continued into its second day in Washington, D.C., bringing together many of the world’s foremost religious freedom experts and advocates. This blog is Part 3 of a three-part summary covering the second day of the conference, and it covers discussions on displaced religious communities and the closing plenary session.
The Law of Conscience: Return and Restoration for Religious Communities
Humility, careful listening, and moral conscience can address the long‑term needs of displaced religious communities. Law and policy alone cannot capture the depth of trauma or the requirements for genuine coexistence.
Testimonies from Armenia: Effects of Displacement & How to Rebuild Connection
Nina Shaherdigan described the devastation of the 2020 Nagorno‑Karabakh war, during which 5,000 Armenians were killed and more than 100,000 were displaced. She recounted the blockade that left civilians without food or electricity for ten months, the destruction of cultural heritage, and the loss of her home. She argued that acknowledging truth, recognizing responsibility, and ensuring reparations are essential steps toward justice. She stressed that the right for Armenians to return must be guaranteed so that displaced Armenians can rebuild their lives.
Also regrading Armenians, Tugba Erdenir reflected on the power of physical places—churches, sacred sites, and community buildings—to anchor identity and enable healing. She highlighted examples of restored Armenian religious sites where communities have been able to celebrate Easter again. She argued that inclusive dialogue, strong alliances, and courageous political leadership are necessary to create lasting peace. Restoration is not merely symbolic; it is a foundation for rebuilding trust and coexistence.
Policymakers’ Role in Protecting Sacred Sites
Knox Thames offered guidance for policymakers working in conflict‑affected regions. He emphasized that sacred sites should never be targeted except in extreme wartime necessity. Drawing on examples from Iraq and Cyprus, he urged governments to protect heritage sites, allow access to spiritual places, and avoid actions that unintentionally destroy cultural identity. He also noted that governance, land rights, and geopolitical dynamics must be addressed to ensure long‑term stability.
IRF Closing Plenary: A Call to Courage and Responsibility
The closing plenary of the IRF Summit emphasized gratitude, inspiration, and a renewed sense of mission. Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett reflected on the Raoul Wallenberg monument at the United Nations—a bronze briefcase symbolizing Wallenberg’s urgent rescue work during the Holocaust. She described it as a moral challenge to today’s advocates: Who will pick up the briefcase? She urged participants to see themselves as those who step into danger on behalf of the vulnerable and carry forward the work of protecting freedom of belief.
The Role of Small Groups in Driving Global Change
Ambassador Sam Brownback then honored the small team that organizes the summit each year, highlighting their behind‑the‑scenes dedication. He thanked staff members responsible for programming, logistics, and technical operations, noting that their quiet, year‑round work makes the gathering possible.
Brownback emphasized that major human‑rights movements are almost always led by small, committed groups—not by large crowds. He described religious‑freedom advocates as the people who stand with marginalized and unpopular communities, even when it is inconvenient or risky. He stated,
Defending minority faiths does not require theological agreement, but moral conviction.
Standing up to bullies brings personal cost, yet ultimately expands freedom for everyone. He closed by expressing affection for the community and sending them forward with blessings.
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Marianna Richardson is the Director of Communications for the G20 Interfaith Forum. She is also an adjunct professor at the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University.