Foundation of the International Association of Free Thought (
on the initiative of the International Liaison Committee of Atheists and free thinkers)

150 Free thinkers and atheists from 18 countries were present in Oslo on 10 August 2011, from Germany, England, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Spain, Finland, France, India, Italy, Lebanon, Norway, Poland, Russia, Switzerland, the USA.

We have reconstructed the founding conventions of international Free thought, held since 1880 (Brussels), in particular the Congress of free Thinkers of Rome (1904) which opened the campaign for the separation of churches and states in several countries. It is to promote and continue this battle that we have considered useful and necessary to rebuild this international organization. In liaison with the IHEU, our International association will be totally independent and will not compete with the IHEU.

An International council was elected, as well as 6 spokespersons: Christian Eyschen (France), David Rand (Canada), Albert Riba (Spain), David Silverman (USA), Antonio Vergara (Chile), Keith Portus Wood (United Kingdom).

A website has been opened, and 3 first international campaigns have been decided:

  • For the separation of religious institutions and States in all countries, from all continents
  • An international Commission of inquiry into the public financing of religious institutions
  • To reveal and denounce the crimes committed by the priests.

We invite all atheists and free thinkers, as well as their organizations, to join the international Association of Free thought, to lead the common struggle for freedom of conscience and the separation of religious institutions and states.

Signed by:

  • Christian Eyschen (France)
  • David Rand (Canada)
  • Albert Riba (Spain)
  • David Silverman (USA)
  • Antonio Vergara (Chile)
  • Keith Porteous Wood (United Kingdom)