Open Doors USA calls for a swift confirmation of Indian-American Rashad Hussain, President Joe Biden’s nominee as Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, reports Premier Christian News.
In a statement, David Curry, CEO of the Christian persecution watchdog organization, said, “Open Doors has repeatedly called on the Biden Administration to fill these critical roles to international religious freedom, and we are heartened by today’s nominations. Rashad Hussain is a well-qualified nominee with a deep understanding of the factors at play in China, India, and elsewhere. We look forward to building together the diverse coalition of leadership necessary to counter the rising tide of religious persecution worldwide.”
Rashad Hussain is a well-qualified nominee with a deep understanding of the factors at play in China, India, and elsewhere. —David Curry, CEO of Open Doors USA
Curry added, “Mr. Hussain’s experience could play a major role in addressing some of the most challenging issues facing Christians, especially in the Middle East and West Africa.” He urged Congress to confirm Hussain’s nomination quickly so issues of religious freedom can be dealt with as soon as possible.
Rashad Hussain, if confirmed by the Senate, would be the first Muslim to head US diplomacy for advocating religious liberties. He is currently the Director for Partnerships and Global Engagement at the National Security Council and previously served as Senior Counsel at the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, reports Hindustan Times.
At 41, Hussain brings immense experience to the position of IRF Ambassador having served as an associate White House Counsel and as the United States Special Envoy to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation under then President Barack Obama. As an envoy, he worked with multilateral organizations, foreign governments, and civil society organizations in strengthening partnerships in different areas such a education, health and international security.
The Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom coordinates U.S. government policy in advancing the right to freedom of religion abroad. The post is vital in promoting and protecting religious liberties, especially in communities where practicing a certain faith is a threat to a person’s life.
Open Doors cited the main issues the new IRF Ambassador must address, including the cruelty against Christians in Nigeria, the genocide against Uyghur Muslims in China, and the deterioration of religious freedoms in India.
“We’re glad to see the White House answer the call of Open Doors USA and many other groups who have been advocating for a qualified appointment to this position since the start of the Biden administration,” said Isaac Six, Director for Advocacy for Open Doors USA.
The American Jewish Committee (AJC) also lauded Biden for appointing Hussain. David Harris, AJC CEO, said, “Rashad Hussain is an impressive advocate of freedom of religion or belief in challenging diplomatic contexts.”
