John Bolton could be the first national security chief to prioritize religious freedom.
Among the Trump administration’s early successes, two stand out particularly, and incoming National Security Advisor John Bolton has the chance to take both to the next level.
First, the administration prioritized religious freedom in its recently released National Security Strategy, stating: “The United States also remains committed to supporting and advancing religious freedom — America’s first freedom.”
It adds: “[The United States] will advocate on behalf of religious freedom and threatened minorities. Religious minorities continue to be victims of violence. We will place a priority on protecting these groups and will continue working with regional partners to protect minority communities from attacks and to preserve their cultural heritage.”
Second, on religious freedom, the administration has backed its words with action. Especially notable are concrete steps taken to assist victims of genocide in the Middle East — including Christians and Yazidis.
The vice president’s October announcement that aid was coming gave the Christian and Yazidi communities hope. Now the money has begun to flow.
However, those working to promote international religious freedom remain concerned whether America’s current policy toward ISIS genocide victims will ultimately succeed.
The concern is that there isn’t adequate staff at the State Department or the National Security Council to further the efforts. John Bolton could change that.