The International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) was founded in Boston, USA in the year 1900 as an organization to bring together people “striving to unite Pure Religion and Perfect Liberty”. Historically, IARF is the first interfaith harmony and peace promoting organization in the world.
IARF affirms the Right to Freedom of Religion and Belief. Openness to the many diverse expressions of faith in the world is at the heart of the IARF and its works. IARF encourages religious practices. It is committed to open enquiring, respect for the Human Dignity of others and reverence for life. It resists religious intolerance. It affirms the Right to Religious Freedom and, sides with the oppressed religious communities all over the world.
IARF seeks to be guided by the Spirit of Truth, which transcends time and place, race and creed, country and color, but it is present in the religious traditions of the world.
IARF sponsors interfaith community projects in places where there are ethnic and religious conflicts.
IARF welcomes into membership anyone committed to the Fundamental Right of Religious Freedom and to openness, understanding, compassion, and solidarity among persons of different Religious Traditions.
IARF-SACC
IARF-SACC is the regional body for South Asia, is a Charitable Trust registered in India in 2000, managed by the regional, national and International Council members of IARF from India, and advised by a committee of the National Presidents of the Chapters of nations in the region.
In 2017, IARF SACC, has been conferred the general consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (UN)
National Chapters exist in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and in Pakistan, and have Branches in different parts of the respective countries.
IARF-SACC promotes, monitors and co-ordinates the activities of these National Chapters.
SACC office is based in Kerala state, near the heritage village Aranmula, Kozhencherry, Pathanamthitta.