A congressional commission in Washington has called on the Trump administration to prioritize religious freedom and free speech during its 2026 presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20). The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission held a hearing focusing on the ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria and increasing concerns about state-sponsored censorship worldwide.
The commission discussed ways for the administration to highlight human rights issues as it prepares for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled to take place in Miami, Florida, from December 14 to 15, 2026.
Republican Co-Chairman Chris Smith opened the session by emphasizing Nigeria’s urgent situation. He referred to data from Open Doors that estimates around 25,000 Christians have been killed globally over the past five years, with most deaths occurring in Nigeria. Smith said, “President Donald Trump has publicly stated that Christianity faces an existential threat in Nigeria and has taken steps to address the situation,” adding that this could be a moment for G20 countries to act together for protection.
Smith also suggested that the Trump administration should formally recognize Religion 20 (R20) as a permanent G20 Engagement Group. The R20 was included in Indonesia’s 2022 G20 program and marked the first time religion was officially recognized as a potential source of global solutions. The R20 communiqué from Bali called for an alliance based on shared values and urged efforts to prevent identity-based political violence.
Addressing free speech concerns, Smith warned about what he described as a growing “censorship-industrial complex.” He said governments, technology platforms, and non-governmental organizations are restricting religious and political expression across several G20 nations. According to Smith, these actions could impact economies by distorting information flows needed by businesses and financial markets.
The Trump administration’s agenda for the Miami summit includes three main themes: reducing regulatory burdens, expanding affordable energy supply chains, and developing new technologies. Issues such as climate change, debt relief, inequality, and sustainability will not be part of the formal discussions.
Ghana is watching developments closely due to its large Christian population and close relationships with both the United States and Nigeria. Any commitments made at the G20 regarding religious minority protections or cross-border digital expression frameworks may affect Ghana directly.
Chris Smith has served in Congress representing New Jersey’s 4th District since 1981. He succeeded Frank Thompson that year. Smith was born in Rahway, New Jersey in 1953 and currently resides in Manchester Township. He graduated from The College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1975.
