An International Conference on Freedom of Religion or Belief Held in Prague

The first day took place at Prague Castle under the auspices of the President of the Czech Republic, Petr Pavel. The second day was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Czernin Palace, where our researcher Petr Kratochvíl opened the day and Mats Braun, Director of the Institute of International Relations, chaired one of the panels.

President Pavel on Faith, Freedom, and His Meeting with the Dalai Lama

In his opening speech, President Petr Pavel stressed that freedom of religion is not merely a legal concept but a profound human value that enables both individuals and societies to withstand moments of uncertainty.
He noted: “When it is free, faith can become an incredible source of resilience, belonging and human dignity, especially in times of crisis.”
He also warned that wherever power attempts to suppress the human spirit, all freedoms begin to erode. The President mentioned his recent meeting with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, praising the Dalai Lama’s lifelong dedication to non-violence and freedom of conscience as an inspiration for the world.

A special tribute to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who celebrates his 90th birthday this year, formed part of the first day. Participants honoured his lifelong commitment to non-violence and human dignity. The Tibetan community presented a cultural performance and a short ceremony, highlighting the vital role the spiritual leader plays for Tibetan identity and for the global conversation on freedom of thought.

Expert Panels Addressed Climate, Technology, and the Prevention of Genocide

The expert sessions focused on six key areas linked to freedom of thought and religion:
interfaith dialogue and social cohesion; community resilience in times of crisis; artificial intelligence and digital technologies as tools for monitoring rights violations; the impact of climate change on global vulnerability; genocide prevention; and regional challenges across Eurasia, the Middle East, and North Africa.

The discussions showed that religious freedom can serve both as a protective shield for individuals and as a source of renewal and stronger social bonds.

The second day of the conference was opened by our researcher Petr Kratochvíl, who underlined the essential role of academic research in shaping debates on freedom of religion or belief. He spoke about faith as a dynamic resource for human resilience and adaptability during crises, reminding participants that “true resilience does not lie in returning to the past, but in adapting and growing into something new.”
He also emphasised the importance of small and often overlooked religious communities, which—thanks to their flexibility and deep roots in local relations—can contribute significantly to the common good. His remarks placed the theme of religious freedom within a broader context of human vulnerability, solidarity, and transformation.

The afternoon continued with a series of panel discussions. A session on the role of science in society and the effects of climate change was moderated by IIR Director Mats Braun. The panel explored how scientific knowledge shapes public debate, how the climate crisis increases community vulnerability, and how religious organisations can support responsible and sustainable responses to these challenges. Other discussions covered strategic approaches to promoting freedom of religion or belief, the work of regional secretariats, and academic perspectives on current developments in the field.

This year’s IRFBA conference once again provided a unique platform for reflection, practical recommendations, and the exchange of experience among government representatives, civil society, academia, and religious communities.
We extend our thanks to all participants, speakers, and partners who contributed to the programme.