Baku Severely Restricts Religious Freedom - US Commission

Baku / 27.04.18 / Turan: The US Commission on International Religious Freedoms unveiled a report on the world situation in 2018.

Sixteen countries are classified as "of particular concern". As far as Azerbaijan is concerned, it is noted that official Baku in 2017 did not change its "hard line" regarding religious freedoms. The government controls religious activities through relevant laws and the Criminal Code.

It indicates the continuation of police raids against Protestants, Jehovah's Witnesses and some Muslim groups.

Muslim leaders who do not comply with the religious order dictated by the state are subject to fines and detention, and their mosques are demolished.

It is also recalled about the condemnation of another group of activists of the Muslim Unity Movement of 12 people for a period of 12 to 17 years, arrested in connection with the Nardaran events of 2015.

Changes in the legislation have ordered religious groups to submit annual reports to state bodies. State registration of religious communities and groups is also difficult.

Existing laws give the government unlimited powers with regard to believers. Muslim organizations face greater restrictions than representatives of other religions.

It is also noted that out of 160 political prisoners in the country, 90-100 have been arrested for their religious activities. -16D-