We are a global community of liberal and free religious communities and individuals. We work together for freedom of religion and belief, interfaith dialogue, and human rights. Our Vision and Identity Statement defines who we are: a welcoming family open to all who share our values of liberty, reason, and tolerance.

By joining the IARF, you support our vital advocacy work—including our representation at the UN (where we hold General Consultative Status)—as well as our educational initiatives through the Free Religion Institute and our mission to build bridges between diverse faith traditions and cultures. Members of our Member Organizations are automatically part of the IARF family, but anyone can also join individually to deepen their engagement.

Why Join?

Beyond supporting a crucial cause, membership connects you with a worldwide network of like-minded people. As a member, you gain:

• Community Connection

  Access to the IARF Network, our private, safe online space for collaboration. Browse our member directory to establish grassroots connections, contact our staff and Council, and participate in exchanges and study tours to meet fellow members in person.

• Strengthening the Liberal Voice

  By standing together, we amplify the liberal religious perspective on human rights and freedom of belief, ensuring our shared values are heard clearly on the global stage.

• Educational Opportunities

  Free participation in courses and webinars offered by the Free Religion Institute.

• Access to the IARF Library

  A growing collection of books, articles, and recordings from our conferences and webinars on free and liberal religion.

While formal rules are in our Constitution and Policy on Membership, we have summarized the ways you can join below.

Membership for Organisations

Membership in the International Association for Religious Freedom offers organizations the opportunity to join a global community dedicated to promoting religious freedom, human rights, and interfaith dialogue. As a voting member, organizations have the power to shape the Association’s work and contribute to its mission. By becoming a member of the International Association for Religious Freedom, organizations can actively contribute to the promotion of religious freedom and interfaith understanding on a global scale. Together, we can work towards a world where everyone can freely practice and explore their religious beliefs.

Eligibility

Member Organizations are non-governmental organizations, including faith communities, associations, foundations, and educational institutions, whose goals align with those of the Association. To be eligible for membership, organizations must operate based on a publicly available document that they consider binding, such as a statute, constitution, or mission statement. They must also uphold human rights, including freedom of religion and belief, and support interfaith and intercultural dialogue.

The Application Process

The application process for membership involves submitting an application form, which is available on our website. Once received, the application is reviewed and we may request additional information if necessary. The International Council deliberates on the application and may seek further clarification or schedule an interview with a representative of the organization. A resolution is then passed to either accept or deny the application, with reasons provided for denial.

The Rights of Members

As voting members, organizations have certain rights within the Association. These rights include the ability to vote at General Meetings, propose candidates for offices, call extraordinary General Meetings, and request information from and communicate with Association officers and employees. They also have the right to be informed about the Association’s work, strategy, and financial situation. International Council Meetings are open to all Members, although the number of observers may be limited due to practical considerations.

The Obligations of Members

While exercising their rights, Members also have certain obligations. Members are expected to refrain from actions that violate the principles and values of the Association, actively support the Association’s mission, and contribute financially.

We strive to make membership accessible to organizations of all sizes. There is no fixed membership fee; instead, the contribution is agreed upon with each member organization to ensure it is fair and sustainable. We are committed to finding a solution that works for you while supporting our shared goals.

Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated if a Member Organization ceases to exist or upon a resolution passed by the International Council. Severe violations, such as intentional disregard for Association values or failure to contribute financially for two consecutive years without a waiver, may result in termination.

Apply as Organization

IARF Chapters

Chapters within the International Association for Religious Freedom serve as the primary framework for individual membership and engagement. Formed by a group of at least 25 adult individuals who share a common goal of advancing the Association’s work in a specific region, Chapters offer individuals the opportunity to actively participate and influence the Association’s policies. By joining a Chapter, individuals can actively engage with like-minded individuals in their region, contribute to the Association’s work, and promote religious freedom and interfaith dialogue at a local level.

You can find a list of all current chapters and their contact information in our directory.

Requirements

While incorporation is not required for a Chapter, it is encouraged. Each Chapter must operate under a publicly available constitution, produce annual financial reports, and adhere to democratic governance principles. The area of operation for a Chapter is typically a state, with the general rule being that only one Chapter may be established in a given state. However, in exceptional circumstances, the International Council may allow multiple Chapters within a state after careful examination of the presented case and consultation with existing Chapters. Special care is taken to resolve any conflicts that may arise in such situations.

Establishing a Chapter

To establish a Chapter, a representative of the founding members must submit the Chapter application form, which is available on our website. The application should include the required number of signatures from individuals and a draft of the Chapter’s constitution. The Administrator is available to assist prospective Chapters in meeting these requirements.

Once the application is received, it goes through a similar review process as Member Organization applications. The Administrator reviews the application, may request additional information if necessary, and presents the application to the International Council. The Council, through digital means of communication, deliberates on the application and may seek further clarification, schedule an interview with a representative group, or appoint a committee to examine the case and provide a recommendation. A resolution is then passed to either accept or deny the application, with reasons provided for denial.

Rights and Obligations of Chapters

As Chapters, individuals within these groups have certain rights within the Association. These rights include the ability to vote at General Meetings, propose candidates for offices, call extraordinary General Meetings, and request information from and communicate with Association officers and employees. Chapters serve as a vital voice within the Association’s decision-making processes.

While exercising their rights, Chapters also have certain obligations. They are expected to align their actions and statements with the principles and values upheld by the Association. Additionally, they are encouraged to actively support the Association’s mission and contribute financially, with the minimum annual contribution determined by the Trustees and reviewed regularly.

Membership of a Chapter may be terminated if the Chapter ceases to exist or upon a resolution passed by the International Council. Severe violations, such as intentional disregard for Association values, may also result in termination.

Apply as Chapter

Individual Membership

Our primary framework for individuals is through our national Chapters (find one here). However, if there is no Chapter in your region—or if you simply wish to support the IARF directly—we warmly welcome you as an Individual Member.

Even if you are already part of a Member Organization, you can still become an Individual Member to support our global work personally and access all individual benefits.

To become an individual member, simply complete the application form and submit your annual membership dues of 20 GBP (approx. 23 EUR or 25 USD). We believe financial constraints should not be a barrier to joining us; you can request a fee reduction or waiver directly in the application form.

As an individual member, you will have the opportunity to engage with the Association’s wide range of activities and initiatives. Although individual members do not have the voting rights associated with Chapter membership, their support and involvement play a crucial role in advancing the Association’s mission globally.

Whether you are in a country with an established Chapter or somewhere we are yet to reach, your individual membership is a valuable way to show your support and engage with our global community.