Pakistani-American physician and human rights advocate Dr Asif Mahmood has been unanimously elected Chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). With this appointment, he becomes the first South Asian to lead the bipartisan federal advisory commission.
The milestone reflects Dr Mahmood’s growing influence in international human rights advocacy. It also marks another significant achievement for the Pakistani-American community in the United States.
Previously, Dr Mahmood served as the commission’s vice chair. Earlier this year, he was reappointed for a second term, extending his tenure until May 14, 2028.
Dr Mahmood Calls the Appointment a Humbling Journey
After assuming the position, Dr Mahmood described the appointment as both humbling and meaningful.
He said, “I am deeply humbled and honoured to serve as Chair of the USCIRF. It is a remarkable journey-from a small rural village in Pakistan to leading one of the world’s foremost bodies dedicated to defending freedom of religion or belief and shaping US Foreign Policy in accordance with human rights globally.”
He also reaffirmed his commitment to defending religious freedom for people of all beliefs.
Dr Mahmood added, “My commitment is to advocate for the rights of every person: those of all faiths and those who chose no faith at all. Together, let us work toward a world where freedom of religion or belief, mutual respect, human dignity, and peaceful coexistence are protected for everyone.”
Leadership at a Key US Advisory Commission
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom was established in 1998 through legislation signed by former President Bill Clinton.
The independent bipartisan commission monitors religious freedom across the world. It also provides policy recommendations to the White House, the US Department of State and Congress.
Its findings often influence discussions on international human rights and religious liberty.
The commission consists of nine members appointed by the US President and congressional leaders from both major political parties.
Dr Mahmood was reappointed to the commission by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
He succeeds former US Representative Vicky Hartzler as commission chair.
Historic Appointment Highlights Broader Representation
Dr Mahmood had earlier described his reappointment as a significant honour.
At that time, he said, “the first Pakistani, the first Muslim, and the first Asian American to serve consecutive terms on the Commission”.
Political observers have also noted that his election as chair is particularly significant because he is affiliated with the Democratic Party while serving during the Trump administration.
Previous Work Drew International Attention
Dr Mahmood’s work on international religious freedom has received considerable attention, particularly regarding South Asia.
Last year, he played a leading role in preparing the commission’s report on alleged religious freedom violations and the treatment of religious minorities during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure.
During a commission hearing in May, Dr Mahmood stated that authorities in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir were collecting data on mosque imams.
He also urged that India be designated a “Country of Particular Concern” over serious religious freedom violations.
Additionally, the commission recommended allowing independent assessments of religious freedom in India.
Its report also proposed sanctions against India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Furthermore, the commission recommended freezing the assets of officials found responsible for severe violations of religious freedom. It also suggested restricting their entry into the United States and linking US security assistance and bilateral trade to measurable improvements in religious freedom.
Long Career in Public Service and Medicine
Beyond public policy, Dr Mahmood has built an extensive career in medicine and public service.
He is a pulmonologist by profession and currently serves on the Medical Board of California. California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed him to the board in January 2023, and his current term runs through 2027.
Originally from Kharian in Punjab, Pakistan, Dr Mahmood earned his medical degree from Sindh Medical College before moving to the United States.
He later completed his residency at the University of Kentucky Medical Center and pursued a pulmonary fellowship at Harlem Hospital, affiliated with Columbia University.
Political Career and Community Service
Dr Mahmood has also participated actively in American politics.
In 2022, he contested California’s 40th Congressional District as the Democratic nominee. Although he did not win the election, he secured 122,722 votes.
Earlier, he also ran for California Insurance Commissioner in 2018, receiving approximately 850,000 votes.
According to Congressman Brad Sherman, Dr Mahmood received more votes than any Muslim candidate in US election history at that time.
Apart from politics, he has remained involved in humanitarian work.
The California Hospital Association honoured him with its Humanitarian Award two years ago for his public service.
He also serves on the boards of the Organisation for Social Media Safety and the East Los Angeles College Foundation. In addition, he has been associated with UNICEF.
Within the Pasadena community, Dr Mahmood is widely recognised for providing free medical treatment to patients who could not afford healthcare. His commitment to community service has earned him respect beyond his medical and public leadership roles.
