On September 21, 2022, the Institute for Global Engagement (IGE) hosted a roundtable discussion with a Vietnam government delegation from the Committee for Foreign NGO Affairs (COMINGO) and representatives of American faith-based charitable organizations. The event was held at Microsoft Innovation and Policy Center in Washington, DC.

The delegation, led by COMINGO vice chairman Dr. Phan Anh Son, shared about Vietnam’s efforts to provide a legal framework and streamline charity funding and proposed ways to increase cooperation with foreign NGOs. Representatives from World Vision, Catholic Relief Services, Latter-day Saint Charities, the Wesleyan Church, Microsoft, Religious Freedom & Business Foundation (RFBF), International Religious Freedom Secretariat, Georgetown University Berkley Center, and Glocal Ventures participated in the discussion.

IGE President Emeritus Chris Seiple also gave a presentation about cross-cultural religious literacy and RFBF President Brian Grim spoke on the connection between faith and business, including faith’s economic value to the US economy.

In his presentation, Vice Chairman Son also expressed that he looked forward signing a new five-year MOU with IGE to continue its religious freedom work in Vietnam. To learn more about IGE’s Vietnam program, please click here.