A global evangelical leader underscored the urgency of religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue during a major international conference in Uzbekistan on Nov. 15, urging deeper commitments to peaceful coexistence amid rising conflict and violations of religious freedom around the world.
Speaking on behalf of the global evangelical community, Bishop Efraim Tendero, Global Ambassador of the World Evangelical Alliance, delivered one of the addresses at the scientific-practical conference “Uzbekistan – a Tolerant Country,” held at the Zimut Conference Center in Tashkent. Citing data showing that nearly two-thirds of the world’s population lives under conditions where serious religious freedom violations occur, Tendero said the global climate makes sustained efforts toward tolerance “crucial.”
Representing the WEA’s constituency of more than 600 million Christians in 161 countries, he framed tolerance as a moral and theological necessity. He referenced the United Nations’ International Day for Tolerance and noted that rising persecution, instability and geopolitical fragmentation underscore the urgency of rejecting discrimination and safeguarding peaceful coexistence.
Tendero also praised Uzbekistan’s broader efforts, commending the government for extending the observance beyond a single day into a full Week of Tolerance. He described the initiative as evidence of institutional commitment to interfaith harmony through cultural, educational and social engagement. “Such efforts carry particular significance in a world marked by growing geopolitical fragmentation,” he said.
A central theme of Tendero’s presentation was the evangelical theological basis for interfaith dialogue. He said evangelicals ground dialogue in the belief that all people are created in the image of God, adding that Jesus’ engagement across social, ethnic and religious boundaries offers a model for respectful public encounter. Dialogue, he said, cultivates “mutual understanding, trust and cooperation,” enabling faith communities to contribute to social cohesion while maintaining their convictions.
To illustrate this, Tendero recounted his involvement in peace efforts in the Philippines, including a 2008 visit to the headquarters of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. He described leading a delegation of evangelical pastors and Muslim imams into discussions with rebel leaders, calling it a defining moment that helped advance reconciliation efforts later culminating in a comprehensive peace agreement. He also highlighted interfaith initiatives in the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates, where collaboration across religious lines has addressed issues such as violent conflict, human trafficking, corruption and climate change. Uzbekistan, he said, is increasingly recognized for its structured approach to interethnic and interreligious relations.
Tendero additionally expressed appreciation for the recognition and protection of evangelical Christians in Uzbekistan. He noted that the World Evangelical Alliance is represented in the country through the Center of Evangelical and Protestant Churches of Uzbekistan. While acknowledging evangelicals as a small minority, he thanked the government for upholding their rights and freedoms. At the same time, he respectfully urged efficient administrative processes for the registration and recognition of newly established churches so they can fully contribute to society.
Commenting to Christian Daily International after the event, Tendero said he valued Uzbekistan’s policy of tolerance and welcomed the “great hospitality and generosity” shown to international participants. He said the manner in which officials and partners accommodated visiting faith leaders reflected the spirit of openness emphasized throughout the week’s observances.
The conference itself brought together religious leaders, scholars and government representatives from diverse traditions. Officials said it was designed to showcase Uzbekistan’s experience in managing religious diversity and to provide a platform for international perspectives on coexistence, tolerance and cooperation.
The gathering formed a central part of Uzbekistan’s nationwide Week of Tolerance, held Nov. 10–15, which marked the International Day for Tolerance on Nov. 16. The weeklong observance was organized in cooperation with the Committee on Religious Affairs, the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Friendly Ties with Foreign Countries, and several ministries and institutions.
Throughout the country, activities included cultural performances, exhibitions, educational programs, scientific discussions and youth-focused initiatives intended to promote peace, mutual respect and social unity among Uzbekistan’s diverse ethnic and religious communities. Educational institutions hosted essay and art contests, festivals of tolerance and open discussions to reinforce these themes.
Tendero said the World Evangelical Alliance looks forward to ongoing engagement with Uzbekistan and other nations committed to advancing peace through interfaith understanding.
