How does IGE “promote” religious freedom?
IGE uses a “relational diplomacy” approach to promote religious freedom worldwide. This approach begins by seeking to listen to, research, and understand the cultural context in which we work, in order to respectfully engage both the state and society. In the second phase, we build relationships, working simultaneously and transparently with governments and the grassroots. Over time, this top-down, bottom-up approach yields a consensus with our local partners about the role of religion in their society and therefore about how best to promote religious freedom. Agreements result that formalize our partnership while providing measurable and mutually accountable steps that we can take together. This approach of mutual respect creates a “win-win” for all parties, promoting the interests of marginalized religious communities as well as governments concerned about security and social cohesion.
