Washington, DC – In a significant move to bolster global religious liberty and counter rising antisemitism, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has applauded President Donald J. Trump’s nominations. Former Congressman Mark Walker has been nominated as U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom (IRF) and Yehuda Kaploun as Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism.
Strengthening America’s Commitment to Religious Freedom
USCIRF Chair Stephen Schneck expressed enthusiasm about the nominations, noting that they respond directly to the Commission’s recommendations for swiftly filling these vital roles. He stated:
“USCIRF is pleased to see the White House has addressed our recommendation to quickly nominate well-qualified individuals for the International Religious Freedom Ambassador and the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism.”
These positions are central to advancing the human right of freedom of religion or belief worldwide, acting as key instruments in U.S. foreign policy on religious freedom.
Key Roles in Promoting International Religious Freedom
U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom
Established by the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (IRFA), the Ambassador at Large for IRF is the leading executive official dedicated to Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) issues. As an ex officio member of USCIRF, this role is pivotal in shaping U.S. policies aimed at deterring religious persecution abroad. With the nomination of Mark Walker, USCIRF reaffirms its commitment to strong leadership and robust policy enforcement in this arena.
Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism
The role of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, which holds the rank of Ambassador, was created by the U.S. Department of State in accordance with the Global Anti-Semitism Review Act of 2004. This position has a critical mandate: to oversee U.S. initiatives against antisemitism and ensure that hate crimes targeting Jewish communities are met with a determined response. Yehuda Kaploun’s nomination highlights this commitment to tackling modern challenges head-on.
A Call for Swift Senate Confirmation
Both roles require Senate confirmation, and USCIRF Vice Chair Meir Soloveichik has stressed the urgency of confirming these key appointments. “The IRF Ambassador and Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism are vital to representing the ideas for which America stands, as it seeks to advance equality and FoRB around the world,” he said. USCIRF is calling for a speedy confirmation process so that these leaders can begin their critical work without delay.
Broader Context and Future Appointments
USCIRF continues to publish insights and recommendations for political appointments integral to international religious freedom. A December 2024 factsheet highlighted key governmental positions that influence U.S. foreign policy. Moreover, the 2025 Annual Report emphasizes the need for additional appointments—such as the Special Envoy for North Korean Human Rights Issues and the Special Coordinator on Tibetan Issues—to further enhance the country’s role in promoting religious freedom globally. The Commission also advocates for appointing a Special Advisor for IRF on the National Security Council.
About USCIRF
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan legislative agency established by Congress. Charged with monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on religious freedom overseas, USCIRF provides actionable recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress. Its efforts are central to deterring religious persecution and upholding the right to freedom of religion and belief worldwide.
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