Azerbaijan introduces new religion law
05 June 2009
A new Religion Law is in effect in Azerbaijan, and the government has amended both the Criminal Code and Administrative Code. New offenses and punishments are included in the new laws, and registered religious organizations will be required to re-register by January 2010. New limitations on conscientious objection, literature distribution, and criticizing other religions will be imposed. According to reports in the country, the Religion Law was prepared secretly and voted on quickly by the country's Parliament. The Religion Law does not adhere to international human rights and freedom of conscience standards as outlined by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
Pray for religious followers in Azerbaijan as they experience additional restrictions. Pray for the government leaders in the country as they make decisions about how to specifically implement the Religion Law.
Read more: http://www.forum18.org/Archive.php?article_id=1305
Last updated 05 June 2009