UN experts criticized Kyrgyzstan’s new legislation on religion, stating it infringes on freedoms of thought and expression. They urged compliance with international standards, as the laws impose strict regulations on religious organizations. The SCRA defends the laws as necessary for stabilizing public security. UN experts recommend protective measures for minority beliefs and adherence to international human rights obligations.
On Thursday, UN experts condemned new legislative measures in Kyrgyzstan that restrict freedom of religion and belief. They urged the government to align its laws with international human rights standards, expressing concerns that the new laws could significantly hinder freedoms related to thought, conscience, expression, assembly, and cultural rights. While international law allows for certain restrictions, the experts stated that these laws do not meet the necessary conditions for such limitations.
The legislation, including the Law on Freedom of Religion and Religious Organizations and the Law on Countering Extremist Activities, was signed by President Sadyr Japarov earlier this year. These laws intensify restrictions on freedom of religion, expression, and association, such as imposing fines for public religious attire. The requirements for religious communities include registering with the State Commission for Religious Affairs (SCRA) every ten years and increasing the minimum number of founders required to start a religious organization from 200 to 500 members.
Additionally, registered religious groups must notify local administrations and the SCRA about events at pilgrimage sites at least ten business days prior. Failure to comply with the new restrictions can result in significant fines for individuals and organizations. The law grants extensive powers to the SCRA to oversee registration applications, control registered organizations, and censor religious materials.
Kanatbek Midin uuly, Deputy Director of the SCRA, stated that the agency had ensured citizens could exercise their constitutional rights through these new laws, which aim to stabilize the religious landscape and prevent extremist activities. According to General Comment No. 22 by the Human Rights Committee, this type of restriction is impermissible unless specified for reasons such as public safety or individual freedoms.
The draft laws were prepared by the SCRA in consultation with other government bodies, and concerns were raised by UN special rapporteurs prior to their implementation. Notably, UN experts have reported incidents of harassment against religious minority groups and recommended measures for ensuring the cultural identity and religious practices of these communities are fully respected in compliance with international law.
In summary, UN experts have expressed serious concerns regarding Kyrgyzstan’s new laws that curtail freedom of religion and belief, urging the government to ensure adherence to international standards. The legislation imposes significant restrictions, increasing barriers for religious groups, while also providing extensive regulatory powers to the SCRA. Ongoing dialogue with minority religious groups is essential to align Kyrgyzstan’s laws with its international human rights obligations.
Original Source: www.jurist.org
