World of Belief

Waldemar Herdt is a former member of the German Bundestag, entrepreneur, and committed advocate for traditional values and lived faith. Born in the former Soviet Union and shaped by his Christian convictions under challenging conditions, he later brought his experiences and beliefs into German politics. In the Bundestag, he was particularly committed to religious freedom, the protection of family structures, and dialogue between cultures. Even after his time in parliament, he remains active as a mediator, speaker, and bridge-builder — with a clear compass, an international perspective, and a deep sense of responsibility for the future of free societies.

David Soares is a lawyer, journalist, and for many years a member of the Brazilian National Congress. As the son of a traditional Christian family, he grew up where faith and social responsibility are closely connected. In his political career, he distinguished himself on the Committees on Communication, Science and Foreign Relations, and as Brazil’s representative to Parlasul. He brings the perspective of a Latin American bridge-builder who combines national concerns with regional and international cooperation. His commitment is to the protection of family values, the strengthening of free media, and the expansion of dialogue between nations.

Bishop Sergei Ryakhovsky is the presiding bishop of the Russian Union of Christians of Evangelical Faith (ROSKHVE) and a leading voice of Free Church Christians in Russia. Standing in the fourth generation of spiritual service, he combines theological depth with social engagement. As a member of several advisory councils to the President of the Russian Federation as well as the Public Chamber, he actively contributes to matters of faith, values, and interfaith dialogue. His work spans more than 1,000 congregations and is marked by responsibility, integrity, and the pursuit of unity in spirit.

Shaikh Dr. Fares AlSalmo AlTayy is an internationally connected bridge-builder, Secretary-General of the International Organization for Peace to Build Human and Homelands (IOP), and a long-standing partner in peace and development processes. His work combines diplomatic foresight with practical projects in crisis regions such as Iraq, Syria, and Somalia. With a focus on education, reconstruction, and intercultural dialogue, he initiates sustainable cooperation between governments, institutions, and civil society.

Prof. Dr. theol. Dr. phil. Paul Imhof is an internationally recognized theologian, philosopher, and spiritual bridge-builder. After years in the Jesuit order, ordination to the priesthood, and intensive work with Karl Rahner, he later joined the Evangelical Lutheran Church. As founder of the St. Paul Academy, retreat leader, and founding rector of the German University in Armenia, he unites lived spirituality with intercultural competence.

Sandra Bünger is a strategic initiator, journalist with an international press card, and part of the global CIRAS network. She combines strong communication skills with a keen sense for global developments and cultural dynamics. Whether supporting international projects, designing events, or working as an accredited journalist — her work aims to foster understanding, promote values, and achieve lasting impact.