IRLA Announces Reorganization

The International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA), announced today that James Standish and Barry Bussey have switched portfolios. Going forward, Mr. Standish will represent the IRLA to the US Government and continue to serve as IRLA Deputy Secretary General, and Pr. Bussey will represent the IRLA to the United Nations. The change is part of a broad plan to grow the association and increase its impact.

“I’m very pleased Pr. Bussey and Mr. Standish agreed to take up their new roles,” states Dr. John Graz, Secretary General of the IRLA. “Pr. Bussey, who is an attorney, has a long interest in international law, learning French and is a citizen of Canada, one of the most respected nations at the UN. Mr. Standish previously served on the White House task force on interfaith dialogue and cooperation, served as executive director of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom, is a member of the US Supreme Court bar and is well known in Washington. I foresee both of them excelling in their new roles.”

Pr. Bussey and Mr. Standish recently attended the opening of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, during which they listened to world leaders outline their vision for the globe. They also met with a number of United Nations figures last week to ensure a smooth transition. Mr. Standish’s final act as the IRLA representative to the United Nations will occur this Friday, where as secretary to the United Nations NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief, he will be part of the team hosting a briefing by the new United Nations Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Religion or Belief.