IARF: International Association for Religious Freedom

IARF: International Association for Religious Freedom Bringing together liberal religious communities and individuals since 1900.

The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF, http://iarf.net/) is a broadly interfaith religious community. Its central aim is to network and cooperate globally for freedom and diversity of religion and belief, for mutual respect and brotherhood, benevolence, charity... and peace. It's history spanning over a century, the IARF has almost 100 affiliated member groups in over 30 countr

ies, representing a wide range of faith traditions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Shintoism and Sikhism, among others. The association, the world's first truly interfaith organization, holds NGO "consultative status" with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

In an age of declining traditional religion, liberal religiosity has quietly become the foundation of contemporary spiri...
17/06/2026

In an age of declining traditional religion, liberal religiosity has quietly become the foundation of contemporary spirituality.
Less about rigid dogma and more about openness, compassion, personal experience, and ethical living — it’s reshaping way how to connect with the sacred today. Progressive faith traditions helped development of the mindfulness culture, and of inclusive spirituality that defines our time.
The future of the sacred may be more progressive than we think.
What do you think — is liberal religion the bridge to the future of faith?

In a divided world, our strength lies in unity. The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) brings togeth...
16/06/2026

In a divided world, our strength lies in unity. The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) brings together progressive, open-hearted people of faith and conscience from many traditions to defend religious freedom, promote dialogue, and build a more tolerant world.
If you believe in inclusive spirituality, human rights, and interfaith solidarity, join us today. Together we are stronger.
👉 Learn more and become a member: iarf.net

Ever wonder where the word "RELIGION" actually comes from?One of the most fascinating etymological roots points back to ...
11/06/2026

Ever wonder where the word "RELIGION" actually comes from?

One of the most fascinating etymological roots points back to the Latin word "religare" (a view shared by ancient thinkers like Augustine and many modern writers).

Breaking it down:

Re- (meaning "back" or "again")

Ligare (meaning "to bind, tie, or fasten")

Together, it literally means "to re-bind" or "re-connect." 🔗

While this is often interpreted as the sacred bond between humans and the divine—the ultimate connection to something greater than ourselves—there is another beautiful layer to this. It’s also about the sacred bond between humans.

It’s the invisible thread that ties us to one another, building community, shared values, and mutual obligation. Fun fact: It's the exact same root that gives us English words like "ligament" (which holds our bodies together) and "rely" (how we depend on each other).

What does the idea of "re-connecting" mean to you in today's world?

Generalisation is dangerous—especially when it comes to religion.No faith should be judged by the actions, words, or cho...
10/06/2026

Generalisation is dangerous—especially when it comes to religion.
No faith should be judged by the actions, words, or choices of a few. Every religious community is diverse, with people who think, practise, and live their beliefs in different ways. When we generalise, we replace understanding with stereotypes and create fear where there should be respect.
Let’s choose dialogue over assumption, empathy over prejudice, and unity over division.

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” — it appears in almost every major religion in the world:Christian...
09/06/2026

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” — it appears in almost every major religion in the world:

Christianity: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31)
Judaism: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow.” (Talmud, Shabbat 31a)
Islam: “None of you [truly] believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” (Hadith)
Hinduism: “Do not do to others what would cause pain if done to you.” (Mahabharata 5:1517)
Buddhism: “Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.” (Udana-Varga 5:18)
Confucianism: “Never impose on others what you would not choose for yourself.” (Analects 15:24)

Despite our different beliefs, cultures, and traditions… we all agree on this core truth.
In a divided world, maybe it’s time we actually live the one thing we all share.

Which version resonates with you most?

Join the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) – uniting liberal voices across faiths since 1900 to pro...
08/06/2026

Join the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) – uniting liberal voices across faiths since 1900 to protect and promote freedom of religion and belief worldwide.
Your voice matters in building a more tolerant, just world.
Join today at iarf.net

On Planet Earth, there is only one race — the human race.We may look different, speak different languages, and carry uni...
06/06/2026

On Planet Earth, there is only one race — the human race.
We may look different, speak different languages, and carry unique stories, but at our core, we’re all one family. Let’s choose unity, kindness, and understanding over division.

The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) is a worldwide community of liberal and progressive faith com...
01/06/2026

The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) is a worldwide community of liberal and progressive faith communities and individuals working together for:
Liberal approach to the religion and spirituality
Freedom of religion and belief
Interfaith dialogue
Human rights

We hold General Consultative Status at the United Nations, run educational programs through the Free Religion Institute, and build bridges across different faiths and cultures.

By joining IARF you get:
Access to our private global network
Free webinars and courses
The IARF Library resources
Connection with like-minded people worldwide
The chance to support and amplify the liberal religious voice on the global stage

Whether you're an individual, a faith community, or want to start a local Chapter, everyone is welcome who shares our values of liberty, reason, and tolerance.

Ready to join the IARF?
Apply here: https://iarf.net/membership-in-iarf/
We’d love to have you with us!

Address

Essex Hall 1-6 Essex Street
London
WC2R3HY

Telephone

+31641744951

Website

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