On September 9, 2025, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) held a hearing: Laws Regulating Religion in Central Asia. USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler and Vice Chair Asif Mahmood led the hearing. Members of civil society participated as witnesses, discussing the ways Central Asian governments use a series of laws to target and penalize peaceful religious activities. Participants also provided potential policy options for the U.S. government.