WASHINGTON, DC (Diya TV) — In a groundbreaking announcement, the United States has officially designated China, North Korea, and Pakistan as “Countries of Particular Concern,” citing their active involvement in and tolerance of particularly severe violations of religious freedom. This momentous decision is part of the Religious Freedom Designations unveiled by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, highlighting the nation’s enduring commitment to advancing the freedom of religion or belief.
Blinken emphasized the pivotal role of the International Religious Freedom Act, enacted in 1998, in shaping US foreign policy with the primary objective of safeguarding religious freedom. Last week, he took decisive action by designating a list of countries, including Burma, China, Cuba, North Korea, Eritrea, Iran, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, all facing severe violations of religious freedom.
Expanding the scope further, Blinken added Algeria, Azerbaijan, the Central African Republic, Comoros, and Vietnam to the list as Special Watch List countries, acknowledging their tolerance of major violations of religious freedom. The Secretary of State also identified specific entities, such as al-Shabab, Boko Haram, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Houthis, ISIS-Sahel, ISIS-West Africa, al-Qa’ida affiliate Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin, and the Taliban, as “Entities of Particular Concern.”
Addressing the broader issue, Blinken pointed out that significant violations of religious freedom persist in countries not explicitly designated. He called upon governments worldwide to put an end to abuses such as attacks on religious minority communities, violence against places of worship, communal violence, and prolonged imprisonment for peaceful expression. Emphasizing the systemic challenges, Blinken stressed that the battle for religious freedom is deeply rooted and entrenched globally.
As the United States takes this bold and decisive step, it sends a resounding message of unwavering commitment to promoting religious freedom on the world stage. This move underscores the nation’s dedication to confronting intolerance and persecution, affirming a steadfast stance against violations that pose a threat to the fundamental rights of individuals. The international community is urged to unite in the collective pursuit of a world where all people can coexist with dignity and equality.
