Meriam Ibrahim Is Free and She Has Met With Pope Francis

A few days ago I was working on my chronicle. I chose to celebrate the releasing of Meriam Ibrahim. But at the very moment I was ready to input onto the IRLA Website, I read the news she was again in prison and this time with all her family.

They were waiting at the airport when the police came and arrested all of them. The motive given was she did not have the correct documents to leave the country. For all those who had prayed and supported the campaign for her freedom, it was a great disappointment. But this morning, Thursday 24 July 2014, we have learned than Meriam finally left Sudan; free with her husband and children. 

On her way to the US, she stopped in Rome to thank the Italian government and the Pope for their assistance in her release. Pictures were published on social media around the world.

Of course, Meriam’s freedom does not suddenly open the doors of all those who are persecuted, arrested and tortured for their faith. Asia Bibi, Pastor Saeed Abedini, Sajjad Masih ... are still in prison. 

But the releasing of Meriam has become a sign of hope for many.  It shows that when NGOs and governments are focusing on one case, defending a fundamental freedom and human dignity, they can make a difference. When the social medias are associated the chances of success are even greater. It is difficult for a country to justify a decision based on pure negation of human rights, a decision which takes our humanity back to the dark agees.

Meriam and her family leaving Sudan is a victory for religious freedom and an hope for so many victims of religious intolerance. 

Meriam and her family welcomed by the Pope, by the Italian government and having the right to live in the USA, shows that the leaders of the world can make a difference when they take religious freedom and human rights seriously.  http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/pope-francis-holds-very-affectionate-meeting-with-sudanese-apostasy-woman-meriam-ibrahim-after-she-arrives-in-rome-9626154.html

It is also a great sign of hope.

-- Dr. John Graz, Secretary General, International Religious Liberty Association