Kazakhstan under fire over new religion law
ICC Note
“We are very concerned that the new legislation, if adopted, will represent a significant step backwards for Kazakhstan , removing fundamental rights to freedom of religion as upheld by international standards.”
By Jenna Lyle
12/03/2008 Kazakhstan (Christian Today)-Christian Solidarity Worldwide has hit out at a “harsh” new law passed by Kazakhstan ’s parliament which it warns “seriously restricts” freedom of religion or belief.
The new law increases the severity of punishment for those caught holding religious services, conducting charitable work, importing, publishing or distributing religious literature, and building or opening places of worship. It also requires that children attending religious events receive permission from both parents.
Tina Lambert, Advocacy Director at CSW said, “We are very concerned that the new legislation, if adopted, will represent a significant step backwards for Kazakhstan , removing fundamental rights to freedom of religion as upheld by international standards.
“We urge President Nazarbaev to reconsider and to send this legislation back for revision, under the guidance of the OSCE.
