At the prestigious Global Prosperity Forum hosted by the Atlantic Council, political strategist, democracy advocate, and head of the Institute for Democracy and Development “PolitA,” Kateryna Odarchenko brought attention to a critical issue: the intersection of Russian disinformation and the suppression of religious freedom. Addressing an audience of policymakers, scholars, and international experts, Odarchenko emphasized how authoritarian regimes exploit religion as a tool of influence, undermining democratic principles and fundamental human rights.
Odarchenko was honored to share the stage with distinguished experts, including:
- Scott Appleby, Founding Dean and Keough-Hesburgh Professor of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame
- Mohamed Elsanousi, Commissioner at the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom
- Katherine Marshall, Executive Director of the World Faiths Development League at Georgetown University
- Fabio Petito, Professor of Religion and International Relations at the University of Sussex
Moderated by Jack Jenkins from Religion News Service, the discussion delved into the growing concerns over religious persecution, the role of disinformation in eroding religious rights, and the necessity of international collaboration to uphold religious freedoms.
Odarchenko particularly appreciated the insights shared by Mohamed Elsanousi, who underscored the urgency of global cooperation in safeguarding religious liberty. The discussion also highlighted the strategic use of propaganda by authoritarian regimes to manipulate religious narratives, further entrenching their control and weakening democratic movements.
“These conversations are essential for developing actionable solutions,” Odarchenko stated. “Through international cooperation and strategic counter-disinformation efforts, we can protect religious freedom and uphold the values of democracy.”
As disinformation tactics evolve, forums like the Global Prosperity Forum serve as crucial platforms for addressing these pressing challenges. Odarchenko’s contributions reinforced the importance of vigilance and proactive policymaking in the global fight against authoritarian influence and the suppression of fundamental rights.