Pakistan-Origin Physician Dr. Asif Mahmood Elected Chair of US Religious Freedom Commission
Dr. Asif Mahmood, a physician of Pakistani origin, has been elected as the Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) for the 2026–27 term.
The announcement was made by the commission following the unanimous election of its new leadership.
USCIRF Announces New Leadership
According to an official statement, the commission unanimously elected Dr. Asif Mahmood as Chair, while CeCe Heil was elected as Vice Chair for the upcoming term.
USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan US federal commission that monitors international religious freedom and provides policy recommendations to the US President, the Secretary of State, and the US Congress.
Background of Dr. Asif Mahmood
Dr. Mahmood is a practicing pulmonologist, as well as a humanitarian and advocate for human rights.
According to USCIRF, he has participated in humanitarian initiatives and public service activities in various parts of the world. He has also served as a two-term member of the Medical Board of California, where he has worked on healthcare-related issues and patient advocacy.
Originally from Pakistan, Dr. Mahmood has been living in California since 1999.
Dr. Mahmood’s Statement
Following his election, Dr. Mahmood said that protecting international religious freedom remains an important global responsibility.
He emphasized his commitment to supporting the rights of people of all faiths, as well as those who choose not to follow a religion, while promoting human dignity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
Previous Role at USCIRF
Dr. Mahmood first joined USCIRF in 2024 after being appointed by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. He was reappointed for a second term in 2026 and previously served as the commission’s Vice Chair.
His election as Chair marks another milestone in his public service career.
About USCIRF
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is responsible for monitoring religious freedom conditions around the world and advising US policymakers on issues related to freedom of religion or belief.
The commission regularly publishes reports and recommendations concerning international religious freedom based on its research and assessments.
