Singapore: Online roundtable meeting to study impact of Trump’s second term on Christians in Asia

The Initiative for the Study of Asian Catholics (ISAC), in collaboration with the Asia Research Institute (Singapore), is hosting an online roundtable on February 28 to explore the implications of President Donald Trump’s second term for Christians in Asia.

Since his return to the White House, President Trump has introduced various reforms and made significant geopolitical statements.

While much attention has been given to the effects of these policies on American leadership, the global economy, and international relations, this roundtable focuses on their specific impact on Christian communities across Asia.

The discussion will address key concerns surrounding reforms in USAID, changes within the White House Faith Office, the ‘Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias’ Executive Order, and controversial statements regarding the potential deportation of Gaza populations.

Participants will explore whether these policies will promote Christian values in Asia or pose new challenges for believers in the region.

Guest Speakers: Prof. Robert Hefner (Boston University, USA), Prof. Mathew Schmalz (Professor of Religious Studies, College of the Holy Cross, USA), and Revd Kim-kwong Chan, (Chairperson of Christian National's Evangelism Commission, Hong Kong), will join the discussion, moderated by Dr. Michel Chambon (National University of Singapore).

The ISAC remains committed to fostering social scientific research on Asian Catholics, promoting dialogue, and expanding understanding of the lived realities and sociocultural contributions of Catholics across Asia.

This roundtable continues that mission, providing a platform for critical reflection on global policies shaping the future of Christian communities in the region.