European Representative: Arie de Pater

Arie de Pater, EEA’s Brussels Representative since May 2017, has taken on a new role as the European Representative of the IIRF. An alumnus of Wageningen University, during his 12 years with Open Doors International, Arie worked in the capacity of Director Advocacy, and has worked closely with the UN Team of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA). He served the WEA as a member of its Religious Liberty Commission for over a decade. Although he will lend his expertise only one day per week; undoubtedly, Arie’s advocacy experience of over 20 years, at both national and EU/UN levels, will add great value to the work of the IIRF Team. His work contributes towards promoting and defending freedom of religion or belief with a particular emphasis on religious autonomy and Christians persecuted for their faith. Arie says:

“It’s great to be back in Brussels after several years of absence, and I regard it a huge privilege to represent the Evangelical Alliances at this level.”

Arie is married to Francina. They have three children; a girl and two boys. Apart from his work for the WEA and the IIRF, he has a great liking towards the outdoors, the arts & literature.

“Brussels is a lovely city but whenever I need a bit of fresh air and some mind space I take my bike or my runners out to explore a park or the countryside. Old cathedrals, architecture, art, or a good read are balm for the soul as well.” – Arie de Pater