Geneva, Switzerland – September/October 2024 - Ivan Arjona-Pelado, a prominent advocate for human rights and religious freedom, has been named President of the NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) at the United Nations in Geneva. This appointment is a major development for global efforts to defend and promote freedom of belief, a eu newsroom rapid right enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other key international agreements.
Arjona-Pelado, who has dedicated much of his career to championing human rights, currently serves as President of the Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida, la Cultura y la Sociedad (Foundation for the Improvement of Life, Culture, and Society), an organization that achieved Special Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 2019. His leadership at this foundation and other international platforms has underscored his commitment to advancing human dignity through the protection of religious freedoms.
A Leading Voice for Religious Liberty
Ivan Arjona-Pelado's long-standing experience in human rights advocacy, particularly in the realm of religious freedom, positions him well to lead the NGO Committee on FoRB. His work with the Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida, la Cultura y la Sociedad has focused on promoting human rights, cultural development, and social welfare on a global scale, with special emphasis on protecting freedom of conscience and belief.
Under Arjona-Pelado's leadership, the Fundación has been instrumental in raising awareness of religious freedom issues at international forums, including the United Nations, leveraging its ECOSOC status to participate in high-level discussions. The foundation’s consultative status allows it to provide expert input on matters of human rights, development, and cultural issues, enabling it to influence global policies aimed at improving the well-being of individuals and societies.
"Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental pillar of human dignity and must be upheld for the benefit of all people, regardless of their background," said Arjona-Pelado following his appointment. "I am honored to take on this new role at the NGO Committee on FoRB and will work tirelessly to ensure that this vital right is protected and promoted globally."
The NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief
The NGO Committee on FoRB is a coalition of civil society organizations that collaborate with the United Nations to advocate for religious freedom worldwide. Based in Geneva, the Committee plays a pivotal role in ensuring that violations of religious liberty are addressed within the international community, while also promoting dialogue among diverse religious groups to foster mutual understanding and peace.
In his capacity as President, Arjona-Pelado will lead the Committee’s efforts to tackle key issues such as the persecution of religious minorities, state-sponsored restrictions on religious expression, and the rise of religious intolerance in various regions. With his deep expertise in interfaith dialogue and human rights, he is expected to push for stronger international protections for individuals and communities facing religious persecution.
A Proven Advocate: From Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida to the UN
Arjona-Pelado’s dual role as President of both the NGO Committee on FoRB and the Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida further amplifies his capacity to effect change on the international stage. The Fundación’s ECOSOC status, obtained in 2019, allows it to engage with UN bodies, providing input on policies related to human rights, social development, and religious freedom. Under Arjona-Pelado’s leadership, the Fundación has been a vocal advocate for those who face repression due to their religious beliefs or cultural practices.
His work with the Fundación has garnered significant attention for its focus on human rights education, youth empowerment, and cultural advancement. Through partnerships with other NGOs, governments, and international institutions, the Fundación has contributed to various initiatives designed to protect human rights and promote the sustainable development of societies.
A Global Call for Strong Leadership
Arjona-Pelado’s appointment to the NGO Committee on FoRB comes at a time of increasing global challenges to religious freedom. According to human rights reports, millions of individuals worldwide face discrimination, violence, or legal penalties because of their religious beliefs. In regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, religious minorities are often the targets of persecution, while in other areas, laws that criminalize religious dissent have led to widespread human rights abuses.
The NGO Committee on FoRB plays a critical role in addressing these issues by working with UN agencies, member states, and civil society organizations to promote policies that protect religious freedoms. With Arjona-Pelado at the helm, the Committee is expected to intensify its efforts to advocate for the protection of religious minorities and increase its engagement with international human rights mechanisms.
Looking Ahead: Priorities Under Arjona-Pelado’s Leadership
As President of the NGO Committee on FoRB, Ivan Arjona-Pelado will likely prioritize several key areas:
Strengthening Global Advocacy: Expanding the Committee’s efforts to advocate for religious freedom in countries where it is under threat, particularly through stronger international legal frameworks.
Collaborating with the UN: Utilizing the Fundación’s ECOSOC status and his own network to foster closer collaboration between civil society and the UN on religious freedom issues.
Supporting Persecuted Religious Minorities: Enhancing the Committee’s role in protecting vulnerable communities, with a focus on legal reforms and diplomatic efforts to protect their rights.
Raising Awareness: Promoting greater awareness of the need for interfaith dialogue and religious tolerance, both through international campaigns and grassroots initiatives.
Conclusion
Ivan Arjona-Pelado’s appointment as President of the NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief at the United Nations in Geneva is a significant step forward for global advocacy on religious freedom. His experience with the Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida, la Cultura y la Sociedad, as well as President of the European Office of the Church of Scientology, combined with his deep commitment to defending human rights, positions him as a powerful voice in the ongoing fight to protect religious liberty worldwide.
As global threats to freedom of religion and belief intensify, Arjona-Pelado’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring that this fundamental right is upheld for individuals of all faiths and beliefs, advancing the cause of peace, tolerance, and human dignity.