You can use the tool below to filter and compare the country rankings of each organization. Simply choose specific rankings from the dropdown menus or edit the numerical values for the range fields (which are pre-set to include the full numerical range for that organization).
ISO Code
Country
Flag
Summary
USCIRF
USCIRF Source
State Department
State Department Source
Pew—Government Restrictions Index
Pew—GRI Source
Pew—Social Hostilities Index
Pew—SHI Source
Open Doors—Level of Christian Persecution
Open—Doors Source
Cato—Human Freedom Index
Cato—Source
ADL Global—100 Survey
ADL—Source
Freedom House—Freedom of Expression and Belief
Freedom House—Source
World Index for Moral Freedom
World Index Source
Varieties of Democracy Index
Varieties of Democracy Source
ARDA Religious Regulation Index
ARDA Religious Regulation Index Source
ARDA Religious Minority Discrimination Index
ARDA Religious Minority Discrimination Source
Aid to the Church in Need Report
Aid to the Church in Need Report Source
Details
AF
Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s population is 84.7-89.7% Sunni Muslim and 10-15% Shi’a, Islamilis, and Ahmadi Muslim. Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Baha’is, Buddhists, Zoroastrians, and others compose the remaining 0.3% of the population.
The Taliban has restricted the criminal system in Afghanistan to adhere to their strict interpretation of Islam. A 2007 ruling which has been promoted by the Taliban targets the Baha’i faith and prevents them from openly worshiping. The current 2004 Constitution is going to be overturned and is expected to be replaced with the more fundamentalist 1964 Constitution. All reports agree that Afghanistan has low religious freedom.
While USCIRF ranks Afghanistan as a CPC, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation. The rule of the Taliban has led to even lower levels of religious freedom recently. Minority groups that do not adhere to the Taliban’s strict rules face violence and persecution. Salafists, Christians, and Hazaras have all faced oppression, ranging from the closing of mosques and places of worship to violence or death. Converts from Islam to Christianity face violence and death from the Taliban.
Country of Particular Concern
High
High
Extreme
1
12.38
-2.17
3
3
Persecution
AL
Albania
Low
Low
9.7
92.38
1.77
1
1
Unclassified
DZ
Algeria
99% of Algeria’s 43 million people are Sunni Muslim. The remainder are primarily Jews, Non-Believers, Shi’ite and Ahmadiyya Muslims, and Christians.
The Algerian Constitution declares Algeria a Sunni Muslim state and prevents non-Muslims from holding high government positions. Ordinance 06-03 requires all non-Muslim organizations to register with the Government in order to worship and bans non-Muslim proselytization.
Algeria has deteriorating levels of religious freedom, as all reports agree with. Blasphemy laws are used to arbitrarily restrict religious worship against non-Muslims, like Ordinance 06-03. Non-Muslim proselytization is banned. Churches, like those in Oran, are repeatedly sealed despite Christian protests to their closure. Discrimination especially targets Protestant Christians and Ahmadiyya Muslims, and they both must register with the Commission for Non-Muslim Religious Groups (CNMRG) in order to practice.
Special Watch List
Special Watch List Country
Very High
High
Very High
5.4
87
1
13.38
-1.06
3
3
Discrimination
AD
Andorra
Moderate
Low
3
88.75
0
1
Unclassified
AO
Angola
Moderate
Low
7.0
2
79.95
0.08
1
2
Unclassified
AG
Antigua and Barbuda
Low
Low
4
Unclassified
AR
Argentina
Low
Moderate
9.9
30
4
88.17
2.41
0
2
Unclassified
AM
Armenia
Moderate
Moderate
8.6
58
2
77.79
0.98
1
3
Unclassified
AU
Australia
Low
Moderate
9.8
14
4
98.41
2.28
1
1
Unclassified
AT
Austria
Moderate
Moderate
8.7
20
3
88.63
0.81
1
2
Unclassified
AZ
Azerbaijan
97% of the population is Muslim, with 65% identifying as Shi’a and 35% identifying as Sunni. The remaining 3% identify as Non Believers, Catholics, Armenian Apostolic Christians, Georgian Orthodox Christians, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and members of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. The Azerbaijani Constitution mandates secular separation of church and state (Article 18) and permits free practice of religion (Article 48).
However, much legislation dictates otherwise like the 2009 On Freedom of Religious Beliefs Law, which restricts worship and the distribution of religious texts plus mandates religious group registration. The 2015 Law on Religious Radicalism gives authorities unlimited power in fighting “extremism.” Only groups belonging to the Caucasus Muslim Board have the right to exist.
All reports agree that Azerbaijan has generally decreasing levels of religious freedom, with a few positive developments. The main exception is Pew’s SHI, only ranking Azerbaijan as having “Moderate” levels of social hostilities. Also, the ADL only listed 37% of the population as expressing generally anti-Semitic attitudes. While USCIRF ranks Azerbaijan as a SWL, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation.
In early 2021, amendments to the 2009 On Freedom of Religious Beliefs Law instituted mandates for governmental approval of religious leader appointments and restrictions on worship/ceremonies to Azerbaijani citizens only. President Aliyev pardoned 31 Muslim religious activists in mid-March, however, many others of the same Muslim Unity Movement were arbitrarily arrested later in the year. In addition, concerns remain over government-sanctioned desecration of religious cultural and religious sites in the Nagorno-Karabakh region (disputed with Armenia).
Special Watch List
Very High
Moderate
5.1
37
0
43.73
-0.74
3
3
Discrimination
BS
Bahamas
Moderate
Low
10.0
4
79.25
1
1
Unclassified
BH
Bahrain
High
Moderate
3.0
81
1
15.00
-1.39
3
3
Unclassified
BD
Bangladesh
High
High
Very High
7.8
32
2
31.18
1.29
3
2
Persecution
BB
Barbados
Low
Low
9.9
4
2.37
1
0
Unclassified
BY
Belarus
High
Low
6.1
38
1
54.40
-0.36
3
3
Unclassified
BE
Belgium
Moderate
High
9.1
24
3
94.25
1.82
1
2
Unclassified
BZ
Belize
Low
Low
10.0
4
1
1
Unclassified
BJ
Benin
Low
Moderate
9.6
4
2.46
1
0
Unclassified
BT
Bhutan
High
Low
Very High
7.2
2
-0.78
2
3
Unclassified
BO
Bolivia
Low
Moderate
8.3
30
4
86.75
2.22
2
2
Unclassified
BA
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Moderate
Moderate
8.7
32
3
86.75
0.99
1
3
Unclassified
BW
Botswana
Low
Low
8.8
33
4
98.00
1.78
1
1
Unclassified
BR
Brazil
Moderate
High
8.5
16
4
86.29
0.59
1
1
Unclassified
BN
Brunei Darussalam
Very High
Low
Very High
5.0
1
12.38
3
3
Discrimination
BG
Bulgaria
High
High
8.4
44
3
77.38
1.09
3
3
Unclassified
BF
Burkina Faso
Moderate
High
Very High
9.3
3
1.15
1
0
Persecution
BI
Burundi
Moderate
Moderate
6.1
3
1.01
2
0
Unclassified
CV
Cabo Verde
Low
Low
9.9
2.41
1
1
Unclassified
KH
Cambodia
Moderate
Low
6.9
3
53.97
0.92
2
1
Unclassified
CM
Cameroon
Moderate
High
7.6
35
2
77.38
1.79
0
0
Persecution
CA
Canada
Low
Moderate
9.6
8
3
99.57
2.06
1
0
Unclassified
CF
Central African Republic
Around 89% of the population is Christian, with 9% being Muslim, 1% practicing Folk Religion, and 1% Unaffiliated. CAR’s Constitution guarantees free practice of religion and equal protection under the law, as well as bans religious intolerance and “fundamentalism”, despite previous progress in 2020.
However, quite a few reports are outliers. Pew’s GRI Designates CAR as having “Moderate” levels of government religious restrictions. Cato ranks CAR at 8.3 out of 10, with 10 being the most religiously free. The RRI and RMD both rank CAR at 1 out of 3. While USCIRF ranks CAR as a SWL, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation.
Most discrimination is against the Muslim minority. Authorities and fighters with Russian ties engage in regular arbitrary imprisonment, murder, and torture. Mosques—like those in Bambari—are overrun, with hate crimes against Muslims (and religious leaders) on the rise. Muslims are often charged higher fees/fines than non-Muslims for the same crimes. Although investigations have been opened against such allegations, no serious action has been taken. In fact, CAR authorities have been accused of obstructing investigations by the Special Criminal Court.
Special Watch List
Moderate
High
Very High
8.3
0
20.88
1.69
1
1
Unclassified
TD
Chad
Moderate
Moderate
7.9
1
0.92
3
2
Persecution
CL
Chile
Low
Low
9.9
37
4
90.50
2.13
1
2
Unclassified
CN
China
China is approximately 18% Buddhist, 5% Christian, and 2% Muslim. The remainder of the religious population practices Falun Gong, Taoism, and Indigenous Beliefs. However, most Chinese are Unaffiliated, as the State espouses Atheism. Provisions may exist in Article 36 of the 1982 Chinese Constitution protecting “freedom of religious belief,” but this is not the case in actuality.
There are only 5 permitted religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, Protestantism, and Islam. Article 300 of the Chinese Criminal Code makes membership in certain religions, like Falun Gong or Church of the Almighty God, punishable by up to life imprisonment. The 2018 Revised Regulations on Religious Affairs (RRRA) law prohibits all unauthorized religious teachings and provided local authorities more control in regulating religious practice. The Measures on Managing Religious Groups (MRG) law was passed in 2020, restricting spaces where religion can be practiced. Hong Kong’s National Security Law makes it easier for the Government to target religious practitioners there, especially prominent Catholics such as Jimmy Lai.
China has generally low levels of religious freedom, as reflected in most reports. The main exception was Pew’s SHI, which designated Chinese levels of social hostilities as “Low.” President Xi Jingping’s government has heavily pursued “Sinicization of Religion,” cracking down on Western practices through actions like imprisoning Catholic bishops. It uses extensive advanced surveillance against religious minorities. Falun Gong practitioners are subject to arbitrary imprisonment and torture. Most notably, the ruling Chinese Communist Party has targeted Uyghur Muslims and Tibetan Buddhists. It has opened detention camps for Uyghur Muslims, engaging in sterilization, rape, torture, forced labor practices, and even genocide to suppress them. The CCP has limited Tibetan Buddhists’ free practice by restricting visitation to monasteries/temples and banning traditional religious gatherings.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Low
Very High
1.7
20
0
36.86
-2.67
3
3
Persecution
CO
Colombia
Low
Moderate
Very High
8.8
41
4
92.21
1.22
1
1
Unclassified
KM
Comoros
Special Watch List Country
High
Low
4.8
2
21.75
-0.25
2
3
Unclassified
CG
Congo (Republic of)
Low
Low
8.1
3
1.34
1
0
Unclassified
CR
Costa Rica
Moderate
Low
9.2
32
74.50
1.96
2
2
Unclassified
CI
Cote d'Ivoire
Low
Low
9.3
22
3
91.38
1.68
2
0
Unclassified
HR
Croatia
Low
Low
9.6
33
3
92.38
1.51
1
2
Unclassified
CU
Cuba
60-70% of Cubans practice Roman Catholicism, while 25-30% identify as Unaffiliated or practice another religion. This includes a slew of Protestant denominations, Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists. Around 70% of Cubans engage in one or more Santeria practices, a syncretic faith mixing Yoruba and Catholic traditions. Demographic data is difficult to confirm due to tight control on dissemination of information.
Cuba’s new 2019 Constitution protects religious freedom and prohibits discrimination, but other legislation contradicts this. Examples include Decree-Law 35, which obligates telecommunications providers to stop the activity of news outlets spreading “fake” information or information impeding “respect of public order.” The Office of Religious Affairs, or ORA, repressively enforces religious policy. There is no independent judiciary to check Government action.
Religious freedom in Cuba remains highly restricted, as most reports concur. Pew’s SHI serves as an exception to this, designating Cuba as having “Low” levels of social hostilities. In addition, Freedom House ranks Cuba 3 out of 4 on Survey Question D2 “Are individuals free to practice and express their religious faith or nonbelief in public and private?” The Government (self-described as communist) regularly uses surveillance, harassment, and arbitrary interpretation of legislation to persecute those advocating for all religious tolerance. In July, mass protests were held against the Government’s religious policies, with participants later detained and facing harassment even after release. The same occurred for the Archipiélago Protests in November. Journalists—especially independent journalists—are routinely targeted, such as Yoel Suarez.
Special Watch List
Special Watch List Country
High
Low
Very High
3
49.78
0.01
3
3
Discrimination
CY
Cyprus
Moderate
Moderate
9.0
75.50
1.35
2
2
Unclassified
CZ
Czech Republic
Moderate
Moderate
9.5
13
89.63
1.51
2
2
Unclassified
CD
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Low
Moderate
Very High
6.5
3
0.74
1
1
Persecution
DK
Denmark
Moderate
High
9.5
10
87.75
2.25
3
2
Unclassified
DJ
Djibouti
Moderate
Low
5.3
2
26.50
-0.04
3
0
Discrimination
DM
Dominica
Moderate
Low
4
96.13
Unclassified
DO
Dominican Republic
Low
Low
9.6
41
95.13
1.85
0
2
Unclassified
EC
Ecuador
Moderate
Low
9.6
4
76.34
1.99
1
1
Unclassified
EG
Egypt
90% of Egypt’s population is Sunni Muslim, whereas under 1% are Shi’a/other Muslim and 10% are Coptic Christian. There are rumored to be around 20 Jews, 1,500 Jehovah’s Witnesses, and 2,000 Baha’i.
Article 2 of Egypt’s Constitution identifies Islam as the state religion and stipulates that Sharia is the primary source of legislation. There are bans on practicing Jehovah’s Witnesses and Bahaism. Only Muslims, Christians, and Jews can freely practice, per Article 64 of the Constitution. Law 98(f) of Egypt’s Penal Code bans insults of “heavenly religions,” i.e, Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Vague laws are used by authorities to shut down “blasphemy.” Recent Constitutional amendments allow President el-Sisi to remain in office until 2030 and increased military power. Although conditions have improved somewhat, the state of Egyptian religious freedom is generally low, as all reports agree with no exceptions. While USCIRF ranks Egypt as a SWL, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation.
Christian communities face years of administrative backlog for building churches. Egypt’s criminal justice system routinely imprisons religious dissidents, including Christians (Patrick Zaki and Ramy Kamel), Quaranists (Reda Abdel Rahman), and Shi’a Muslims, often using emergency laws as justification. ISIS maintains a presence in the Sinai region. There is an identity card system in place which lists religion, opening the door for minorities to be discriminated against.
Special Watch List
Very High
High
Very High
3.2
75
1
12.57
-0.09
3
3
Discrimination
SV
El Salvador
Low
Moderate
9.3
3
83.88
2.25
2
1
Unclassified
GQ
Equatorial Guinea
Moderate
Low
1
74.50
0.51
3
1
Unclassified
ER
Eritrea
Eritrea’s population is split almost equally between Christians and Muslims, each at 49%. Christians tend to live in the South, and Muslims the North. The remaining 2% practice Traditional African Religions, with a small proportion of Baha’i.
Although the Eritrean Constitution protects “freedom of thought, conscience, and belief,” Proclamation 73 displays otherwise. Passed in 1995, it enables the Government to exercise full authority in religious matters. The Government often uses Proclamation 73 as a pretext to crack down on anyone who opposes the Regime.
Eritrea has generally low levels of religious freedom, as every report with data is sure to point out. The exception is Pew SHI, designating Eritrea as having “Low” levels of social hostilities. Ongoing conflicts in neighboring Ethiopia have spilled into Eritrea, which the dictatorial regime of President Isias Afwerki continually uses as an excuse to restrict religious freedom. Afwerki’s Government only permits practice of 4 religions: Sunni Islam, the Eritrean Orthodox Church, the Roman Catholic Church, and the Evangelical Church of Eritrea. Many are arbitrarily imprisoned on the basis of their faith for extended time periods, especially Jehovah’s Witnesses for objecting to military service. This also extends to church leadership, such as the Patriarch of the Eritrean Orthodox Church, imprisoned from 2006-2022 (he later died in captivity). Fortunately, COVID-19 has caused the release of many religious prisoners due to prison overcrowding.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Low
Extreme
1
20.13
-2.24
3
3
Persecution
EE
Estonia
Low
Low
9.7
22
93.66
2.08
2
1
Unclassified
SZ
Eswatini
7.8
2
76.38
0.59
1
1
Unclassified
ET
Ethiopia
Moderate
High
Very High
7.6
1
69.11
0.46
3
2
Discrimination
FJ
Fiji
Low
Low
8.6
4
1.09
1
1
Unclassified
FI
Finland
Moderate
Moderate
9.6
15
92.38
2.52
1
1
Unclassified
FR
France
High
Moderate
8.9
17
83.70
1.53
2
2
Unclassified
GA
Gabon
Low
Low
9.6
3
0.92
1
1
Unclassified
GM
Gambia
Low
Moderate
9.7
2
87.30
1.14
2
1
Unclassified
GE
Georgia
Moderate
Moderate
8.6
32
2
76.20
0.43
2
3
Unclassified
DE
Germany
Moderate
High
9.0
15
3
93.08
1.99
2
3
Unclassified
GH
Ghana
Low
Moderate
9.8
15
3
95.13
2.48
2
1
Unclassified
GR
Greece
Moderate
Moderate
8.2
67
84.88
0.47
2
3
Unclassified
GD
Grenada
Low
Low
4
Unclassified
GT
Guatemala
Low
Low
9.6
36
4
83.88
1.55
2
1
Unclassified
GN
Guinea
Moderate
Moderate
9.0
3
76.38
1.15
1
1
Unclassified
GW
Guinea-Bissau
Low
Low
9.6
3
95.13
2.16
2
0
Unclassified
GY
Guyana
Moderate
Low
9.7
4
77.38
2.08
1
1
Unclassified
HT
Haiti
Low
Moderate
9.0
26
3
96.13
1.64
2
1
Unclassified
VA
Vatican City
HN
Honduras
Low
Moderate
9.7
4
83.88
1.73
2
2
Unclassified
HK
Hong Kong
Low
Low
8.6
4
0.50
HU
Hungary
Moderate
Moderate
8.4
42
3
76.34
1.44
1
2
Unclassified
IS
Iceland
Moderate
Low
9.8
16
94.24
2.20
1
1
Unclassified
IN
India
Although India is thought of as a strongly Hindu country, this is not necessarily the case. India is approximately 79.8% Hindu, 14.2% Muslim, 2.3% Christian, and 1.7% Sikh, with smatterings of other groups — this includes Jews, Zoroastrians, the Baha’i, etc. Article 25 of the Indian Constitution officially establishes a secular society and free practice of religion.
India has a generally moderate, yet decreasing, level of religious freedom. Every report agrees that disinformation in the media and discriminatory government figures are to blame. While USCIRF ranks India as a CPC, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation.
Since 2014, India has been governed by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP’s increasing grasp on power has enabled the country to begin crackdowns on non-Hindu religious expression. One-third of states ban religious conversion in various forms, such as interfaith marriage. The BJP Government passed the Citizenship Amendment Act, discriminating against Muslim refugees but fast-tracking non-Muslim ones. They also passed the Sedition Law and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), cracking down on permitted religious expression. The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) severely limits funding religious NGOs can receive. Since 2020, there has been outbreaks of Hindu-Muslim mob violence and acquittal of religious hate crime perpetrators.
Country of Particular Concern
High
Very High
Extreme
5.7
20
2
72.59
-0.18
3
3
Persecution
ID
Indonesia
Indonesia is around 87.2% Muslim, the world’s most populous Muslim country. 7% of the population are Protestant Christians, 2.9% are Roman Catholic, and 1.7% are Hindus. 0.9% identify as Buddhist or Confucianist. The government officially recognizes only 5 religions: Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism, Confucianism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. Article 29 of Indonesia’s Constitution protects freedom of worship and religious belief, however, although this is only in theory. Extreme laws are enforced burdening the process of building worship houses, like the 2006 Joint Regulation Law. Blasphemy laws also exist, especially impacting press freedom (Presidential Decree Number 1, Criminal Article Code 156a, Law Number 11).
All reports agree that religious freedom conditions in Indonesia remain low—and unchanged—compared to past years, in spite of President Joko Widodo claiming to promote the state’s “moderate version of Islam.” While USCIRF ranks Indonesia as a SWL, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation. Primary restrictions of religious freedom come in the form of harsh restrictions on worship house building (2006 Joint Regulation) and blasphemy laws (Presidential Decree Number 1, Criminal Article Code 156a, Law Number 11). Authorities rigidly enforce these laws, including by arresting religious leaders. Despite national protests, these extreme laws are replacing the old Dutch criminal code, which was more tolerant. Islamist extremist attacks remain a threat to minority religious groups, such as by ISIS. Sharia is imposed in most provinces, especially Aceh. Government ID cards mandate listing of religion, opening the door to discrimination of non-Muslims.
Special Watch List
Very High
High
Very High
6.5
48
1
20.51
-0.07
3
3
Discrimination
IR
Iran
Iran is primarily Shi’a Muslim, comprising 95% of its religious population. Sunni Muslims account for around 5-10%, while Jews, Christians, Zoroastrianism, and those of the Baha’i faith account for the remaining 0.3%. The Constitution of Iran makes Islam the official religion of the nation. Iran has outlawed the conversion of Muslims to other religions and has cracked down on interpretations of Islam different from the State’s interpretation. Article 20 of the Iranian Constitution states that equality of the law will not be protected if citizens do not conform to the State’s Islamic criteria. Article 110 of Iran’s Constitution creates a “Spiritual Leader” as a Muslim and political leader.
The reports generally agree that Iran has low religious freedom. However, Pew’s Social Hostilities Index ranks religious social tensions as “Moderate,” an outlier compared to the other low religious freedom scores given by most other reports. Reports concur that Iran’s persecution of Sunni Muslims is a main reason for low religious freedom ratings. Sunni Muslims find difficulty in obtaining government jobs, getting education, or creating places of worship. They have seen places of worship destroyed or relocated. Baha’i faced mass arrests in 2021 and Iran’s Government recently denied them the right to bury their dead in a religiously appropriate manner. Non-Muslims are banned from participating in certain Government positions: this mainly targets recent converts from Islam. Christians and Jews face heavy forms of discrimination and persecution from the government and in social spheres.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Moderate
Extreme
3.9
60
0
7.08
-0.95
3
3
Persecution
IQ
Iraq
Iraq’s population is predominately Muslim and divided into 60-64% Shi’a Muslims and 29-34% Sunni Muslim. The remaining 1-5% of the population is divided into Yazidis, Christians, Kaka’is, and a small number of Jews. While the Constitution guarantees religious freedom, a 2015 religious conversion law makes the children of a Muslim convert, a Muslim even if the other parent is not Muslim. The Yazidi survivor law, however, represents a protection for the oppression the religious community faced under ISIS.
The reports mainly agree that Iraq has low levels of religious freedom. However, the Religious Regulation Index gives Iraq a score of 1 out of 3 which is dramatically better than how Pew, Freedom House, and other reports rank Iraq. Also, while USCIRF ranks Iraq as a SWL, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation. While the reports cite the positive trend of openness Iraq has shown to religious pluralism, they still point to low religious freedom in the country. This is mainly attributed to the support for Islam in the Constitution over other religions. Islam is seen as the “source of legislation” which means no laws can contradict Islam. They also mention that people are asked for religious affiliation when applying for an identification card. The reports also cite blasphemy laws that still exist in the law.
Special Watch List
Very High
Very High
Very High
7.3
92
1
9.63
-0.95
1
3
Discrimination
IE
Ireland
Low
Moderate
9.6
20
92.38
2.17
1
1
Unclassified
IL
Israel
High
Very High
9.2
3
77.38
1.74
3
2
Unclassified
IT
Italy
Moderate
Moderate
9.2
18
4
93.08
2.16
0
2
Unclassified
JM
Jamaica
Low
Low
9.8
18
96.13
1.29
1
1
Unclassified
JP
Japan
Low
Low
9.6
23
4
92.50
2.51
0
1
Unclassified
JO
Jordan
High
High
Very High
6.0
81
2
29.60
-0.50
3
3
Discrimination
KZ
Kazakhstan
The population of Kazakhstan is divided into 70% Sunni Muslims, 26% Christians, 3% Jews, Buddhists, and others, and 1% Shi’a and Sufi Muslim. The 2011 Religion Law made Kazakhstan one of the most oppressive post-Soviet Central Asian states. The law set registration requirements and banned/heavily restricted unregistered religious activity, but the government has been working to reverse these reforms.
The reports generally agree that Kazakhstan has low to very low religious freedom. However, Pew Social Hostilities Index gives Kazakhstan a “Moderate” rating which is noticeably lower than other reports. The reports mainly attribute these low ratings to the 2011 Law on Religious Activity and Religious Associations. The law created registration requirements for religious organizations, banned unregistered religious activity, and prohibited the distribution of religious text outside of religious institutions. Most reports agree that there are improving conditions of religious freedom with parts of the 2011 Law being rescinded and the Constitution guaranteeing the right to free exercise of religion. However, Open Doors believe these changes will actually make it harder for Christians to practice outside of state-approved institutions. While USCIRF ranks Kazakhstan as a SWL, the State Department has not accepted that recommendation.
Special Watch List
Very High
Moderate
Very High
4.8
32
1
38.82
-0.31
3
3
Discrimination
KE
Kenya
Moderate
High
7.8
35
2
77.50
2.00
2
2
Unclassified
KI
Kiribati
Low
Low
4
Unclassified
XK
Kosovo
Moderate
Moderate
2
2.08
Unclassified
KW
Kuwait
High
Low
Very High
6.2
82
2
21.88
0.08
3
3
Discrimination
KG
Kyrgyzstan
Very High
Moderate
7.2
2
42.88
0.83
3
3
Discrimination
LA
Laos
High
Moderate
Very High
4.9
0
1
67.00
-0.60
3
3
Discrimination
LV
Latvia
Moderate
Low
9.7
28
4
93.38
2.19
2
2
Unclassified
LB
Lebanon
High
High
8.8
78
3
76.05
1.19
1
2
Unclassified
LS
Lesotho
Low
Low
9.8
4
1.71
1
0
Unclassified
LR
Liberia
Low
Moderate
8.6
3
96.13
1.02
2
1
Unclassified
LY
Libya
High
Very High
Extreme
5.3
87
1
18.21
-1.82
2
3
Persecution
LI
Liechtenstein
Low
Low
1
1
Unclassified
LT
Lithuania
Moderate
Low
9.8
36
93.38
1.40
2
2
Unclassified
LU
Luxembourg
Moderate
Low
9.7
93.38
1.92
2
1
Unclassified
MG
Madagascar
Moderate
Low
8.6
3
77.38
0.95
2
2
Discrimination
MW
Malawi
Low
Moderate
9.5
4
86.00
1.71
1
2
Unclassified
MY
Malaysia
61.3% of the population is Muslim, with the vast majority of those Muslims being Sunni. 19.8% of Malaysians are Buddhist, 9.2% are Christian, 6.3% are Hindu, 1.3% are Confucianist/Taoist/Chinese Religion, and 0.8% are Unaffiliated. Article 3 of Malaysia’s Constitution declares Sunni Islam the official religion. Article 160 ties Malay ethnicity with Islam, opening the door to religious freedom violations of ethnic Malays. Article 11(4) enables the State to “control or restrict the propagation of any religious doctrine or belief among” Muslim people.
All reports agree that religious freedom conditions in Malaysia are declining, especially in light of growing instability within the previously smooth-functioning multiparty democracy there. Cato is the sole exception, ranking Malaysia at 7.4 out of 10, with 10 being the most religiously free. The Government mandates adherence to a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam. Malaysia delegates enforcement of Sharia to the states in its dual legal system, often leading to discrimination against non-Muslims and criminalizing attempts to convert out of Islam. Public school curriculum portrays the “superiority” of Sunni Islam compared to Shi’a Islam and Christianity, as supported by the Government. There is great controversy about whether to even officially classify Ahmadiyya Muslims as Muslims. There is also great tension between Islamist political parties advocating for conservative interpretations of Islam (UMNO/PAS) and more secularist figures.
Special Watch List
Very High
High
Very High
7.4
61
1
67.97
-0.28
3
3
Persecution
MV
Maldives
Very High
Moderate
Very High
0
25.75
-2.38
3
3
Discrimination
ML
Mali
Low
High
Very High
9.1
2
78.25
0.42
1
1
Persecution
MT
Malta
Low
Low
9.8
4
91.38
1.81
1
1
Unclassified
MH
Marshall Islands
Low
Low
4
Unclassified
MR
Mauritania
High
Moderate
Very High
5.2
2
3.00
-2.41
3
3
Discrimination
MU
Mauritius
Low
Low
9.0
44
96.13
1.68
1
1
Unclassified
MX
Mexico
Moderate
High
Very High
8.5
24
4
82.25
1.26
3
2
Unclassified
FM
Micronesia
Low
Low
Unclassified
MD
Moldova
High
High
8.2
30
3
76.38
1.68
3
2
Unclassified
MC
Monaco
Moderate
Low
60.50
Unclassified
MN
Mongolia
Moderate
Low
8.9
26
77.38
1.18
1
2
Unclassified
ME
Montenegro
Moderate
Low
8.3
29
3
92.38
0.86
Unclassified
MA
Morocco
High
Moderate
Very High
4.0
80
2
29.46
-1.16
3
3
Discrimination
MZ
Mozambique
Moderate
Moderate
Very High
8.9
3
77.38
1.37
2
1
Persecution
MM
Myanmar
Myanmar has a Buddhist-majority population (87.9%), with smaller Christian (6.2%), Muslim (4.3%), Animist (0.8%), and Hindu (0.5%) populations. The 2008 Constitution recognizes all these religions, but treats the Buddhist religion as the de facto state religion. Pre-coup criticism of the ruling NLD Party included its inaction on the persecution of Rohingya Muslims. Members of religious organizations are banned from voting and running in elections. In addition, the Government uses travel restrictions to arrest Rohingya Muslims who look to flee violence.
The general trends among various reports is a low or very low score for religious freedom in Myanmar/Burma. Pew’s Social Hostilities Index stands out from other reports by ranking Myanmar at “Moderate,” whereas the other reports show social hostility for practicing Christianity or Islam. The low scores are explained by the Government’s actions against Rohingya Muslims. The Myanmar Government has forced the Rohingya Muslims to relocate to neighboring Bangladesh, increasing the prevalence of sickness, sexual abuse, and murder. The International Court of Justice has began investigations into genocide against Rohingya Muslims. The government has also interfered in Buddhist religious assemblies. Buddhists have also faced crackdowns on their political activities after their advocating for rights for religious minorities. Christians have also faced military and social attacks in the form of bombings and being outcasts from communities.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Moderate
Very High
6.0
1
12.14
-0.91
3
3
Persecution
NA
Namibia
Low
Low
9.6
2.38
0
0
Unclassified
NR
Nauru
Low
Low
Unclassified
NP
Nepal
High
Moderate
Very High
8.5
2
62.38
0.47
2
2
Discrimination
NL
Netherlands
Moderate
Moderate
9.6
10
93.38
2.42
1
1
Unclassified
NZ
New Zealand
Low
Moderate
9.9
14
97.13
2.72
1
1
Unclassified
NI
Nicaragua
Nicaragua is approximately 50% Roman Catholic, 33.2% Evangelical Christian, 13.2% Unspecified/Unknown, 2.9% Jews/Muslims/Others, and 0.7% Unaffiliated. Article 14 of the Nicaraguan Constitution prevents establishment of an official religion, and Article 27 bars religious based discrimination. Other Articles guarantee freedom of conscience and free religious assembly. However, the Constitution alludes to “Christian values” which the country was founded on. All religious groups, excepting the Catholic Church, must register with the State.
Most reports agree that religious freedom conditions in Nicaragua remain low—and unchanged—compared to past years. However, there are many exceptions. Pew’s GRI and SHI designate Nicaragua as having “Moderate” levels of government religious restrictions and “Moderate” levels of social hostilities, respectively. The Religious Minority Discrimination Index ranks Nicaragua as at 1 out of 3, with 3 being the highest religious minority discrimination. Persecution primarily manifests in President Ortega’s authoritarian policies, especially against the Catholic clergy (as was the case after clergy members supported protests against government reforms to the public pension system). Members of the press are routinely arrested. Worshipers and clergy members are harassed. Church property is vandalized and stolen. Ortega and his wife make public comments lambasting the Church, and regularly torture dissidents. The Government cancels visas and prevents the return of priests abroad, usually for arbitrary reasons. Ortega’s FSLN Party supports his oppressive religious policies.
Special Watch List
Special Watch List Country
Moderate
Moderate
5.8
34
2
70.75
0.51
2
1
Discrimination
NE
Niger
High
High
8.4
2
0.96
3
0
Persecution
NG
Nigeria
Nigeria is nearly equally split between Christians (53.5%) and Muslims (45.9%). The rest of the population identifies with other religions, including African traditional religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, etc. Upon Olusegun Obasanjo’s rise to power in 1999, a new Constitution was crafted banning religious-based discrimination and establishment of a state religion. The Nigerian Criminal Code imposes two-year penalties for insulting someone’s religion. Shari’a Codes in Northern Nigeria’s 12 majority-Muslim states prohibit blasphemy, among instituting traditional punishments for crimes.
Nigeria has generally low levels of religious freedoms, as reflected in all reports except VDI, which gives Nigeria a surprisingly high ranking. Islamist extremism has been the primary form of religious tension in Nigeria, perpetrated by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP). Both Islamic fundamentalist groups engage in attacks against Christian places of worship, executions, and persecution of opponents via arbitrary blasphemy laws, especially in Kano State. There are also occasional crimes against Muslims and mosques, although this is on a lesser scale. Certain cases of violence are due to conflicts between Christian farmers and Fulani Muslim herdsmen because climate change, differences in religious beliefs, and encroaching desertification has been moving herdsmen into non-traditional areas: this is known as the “Middle Belt Conflict.”
Country of Particular Concern
Moderate
Very High
Extreme
7.8
16
1
67.54
0.78
2
3
Persecution
KP
North Korea
Due to its closeted nature, demographic information is difficult to discern and is often outdated. Historically, North Koreans followed Chondoism and Buddhism, with a sizable Christian community. However, most religious practice is illegal. Now, the country is approximately 71% Irreligious, 13% Chondoist, 13% Folk Religion, 2% Christian, and 1.5% Buddhist. Despite Article 68 of North Korea’s Constitution guaranteeing “freedom of religious belief,” North Korea’s ruling Juche ideology essentially bans all religion. Juche requires utmost personal loyalty to the Supreme Leader (rather than a religion), economic self-sufficiency, and a strong military, all in ultimate pursuit of complete national autonomy.
North Korea has extremely low religious freedom, if not the lowest globally, as every report with data is sure to point out. The Songbun System officially classifies citizens based on their loyalty to the Kim Regime: if a citizen is deemed “hostile,” they are subject to harassment, imprisonment, and execution. Persecution is used against those who practice religion, such as owning Bibles. This persecution includes arbitrary surveillance, beatings, torture, etc. The Ministry of State Security (MSS) and Ministry of People’s Security (MPS) are in charge of operating detention centers and so-called reeducation camps for those who practice religion. Christians are especially targeted under such policies, followed by Shamanists, the latter practicing of which is deemed a “Crime of Superstition” by the Regime.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Extreme
0
-3.23
3
3
Persecution
MK
North Macedonia
Moderate
Moderate
8.4
3
86.75
1.23
3
3
Unclassified
NO
Norway
Moderate
Moderate
9.6
15
93.38
2.70
1
2
Unclassified
OM
Oman
High
Low
Very High
5.7
76
24.38
0.00
3
3
Discrimination
PK
Pakistan
Pakistan’s population is 85-90% Sunni Muslim, 10-15% Shi’a Muslim, and 0.2% Ahmadi Muslim. There are small populations of Hindus at (1.6%), Christians (1.6%), and Sikhs/Buddhists/Baha’is/Zoroastrians (less than 1%). Article 2 of Pakistan’s Constitution establishes Islam as the state religion and requires all laws to be consistent with Islam. Ahmadis are considered “not to be Muslims” by the Constitution, despite their self identification: thus, they lack the same protections other Muslims have. Blasphemy laws are used to prosecute religious minority groups.
Reports generally agree that Pakistan has low religious freedom. They all state discrimination against religious minority groups as reasoning. Pakistan’s judicial system is based on adherence to Islamic law, and the Constitution establishes Islam as the state religion. Blasphemy laws are used against Christians and Shi’a Muslims for purposes of criminal prosecution and mob violence. The Prime Minister and President must be Muslim, and must swear an oath to protect the Islam in the country while affirming their belief in Allah.
Expressions of non-religious views are severely persecuted and often met with violence. Ahmadis who self identify as Muslims are forced to renounce their Islam and admit they are only able to “obtain basic civil rights.” For proclaiming their faith, Ahmadis are subject to imprisonment, death, or fines. Christian church leaders can face imprisonment if they do not follow instructions given by the State and authorities. Extremism promoted by government officials should also be taken note of, as the encouragement of violence against minorities has led to attacks on religious minorities.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
High
Very High
Extreme
6.3
1
15.31
-1.46
3
3
Persecution
PW
Palau
Low
Low
Unclassified
PA
Panama
Low
Low
9.2
52
94.25
2.10
2
1
Unclassified
PG
Papua New Guinea
Low
Moderate
9.7
96.13
1.69
2
1
Unclassified
PY
Paraguay
Low
Moderate
9.0
35
84.88
2.23
2
2
Unclassified
PE
Peru
Low
Low
9.8
38
90.50
2.21
2
2
Unclassified
PH
Philippines
Low
High
7.4
3
4
65.96
0.74
2
0
Unclassified
PL
Poland
Moderate
Moderate
8.8
48
4
75.50
1.33
2
1
Unclassified
PT
Portugal
Low
Low
9.8
21
93.38
2.45
2
1
Unclassified
QA
Qatar
High
Low
Very High
5.4
80
2
31.88
-2.05
3
3
Discrimination
RO
Romania
High
Moderate
9.0
47
82.13
0.83
2
3
Unclassified
RU
Russia
68% of Russians are members of the Russian Orthodox Church, 7% are Muslims, and the remaining 25% come from a vast array of other religions. This includes Protestants, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Buddhists, Jews, Baha'is, and practitioners of indigenous religions. Article 14 of the Russian Constitution officially establishes a secular state. However, 2020 Amendments described a “belief in God” as a core national value. The state enforces a 1996 law restricting religious freedom for certain groups. It also enforces a 2002 law targeting “extremism,” and more recent anti-blasphemy/anti-missionary laws. Such laws are often vague, giving excess prerogative to the Government in religious freedom crackdowns.
Russia has a generally moderate, yet noticeably decreasing level of religious freedom. Every report agrees that an increasingly authoritarian government is to blame, under President Putin’s unchecked executive power. Non-traditional religions are targeted, and members subject to fines, detentions, criminal prosecution, torture, etc. This includes Muslims in regions like Chechnya, plus Jehovah’s Witnesses. Mosques are often targeted by government raids. This mosque raiding has extended to Crimean Muslims in wake of Russia’s takeover of the region in 2014. Russia also has the 3rd highest global proportion of criminal blasphemy cases, the majority of which result in guilty verdicts. As of 2020, legislation is being considered in the Duma to require recertification of internationally educated clergy and restrict who can lead religious groups.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
High
5.1
31
1
46.32
-0.12
3
3
Unclassified
RW
Rwanda
Moderate
Moderate
5.2
2
69.11
0.41
3
2
Unclassified
KN
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Low
Low
Unclassified
LC
Saint Lucia
Low
Low
96.13
Unclassified
VC
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Low
Low
96.13
Unclassified
WS
Samoa
Low
Moderate
Unclassified
SM
San Marino
Low
Low
92.38
Unclassified
ST
São Tomé and Príncipe
Low
Low
1.96
Unclassified
SA
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s population is almost exclusively Muslim. 85-90% of the population is Sunni Muslim, while the remaining 10-15% are Shi’ites. However, due to the high numbers of expat residents, it is estimated that there are around 2 million Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Christians, and Folk Religion Practitioners combined. The Unaffiliated, Atheists, and Agnostics often hide their beliefs out of fear, so their statistics are difficult to gauge. King Salman is officially “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.”
Per the 1992 Saudi Basic Law of Governance, the country’s Constitution consists of the Qur’an and Sunna (traditions of the Prophet Muhammad). This Basic Law fails to recognize religious freedom, declaring Islam the sole state religion. Saudi Arabia’s judiciary follows the Hanbali jurisprudential interpretation of Sharia Law, prescribing often harsh capital punishments. Its Guardianship System places severe limitations on women's freedom of choice, movement, and speech. Religious police known as Mutawa strictly control public behavior. The government’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs monitors “acceptable preaching.”
Saudi Arabia has low levels of religious freedom, and almost every report agrees as such. The main exception is Pew’s SHI, designating Saudi Arabia as having “Moderate” levels of social hostilities. Non-Muslim prayer and construction of non-Muslim worship houses are forbidden. Those espousing beliefs contradictory to the state’s strict Wahhabi Islam are detained, imprisoned, and mistreated: this extends to journalists, the LGBTQ+ community, and the small community of non-Muslims and the Irreligious there. COVID-19 has exacerbated discrimination against the minority Shi’a community, subject to longer lockdowns and arbitrarily extensive imprisonment. Women in prison are also subject to sexual assault and torture, as are other inmates. In recent years, though, the Government has slowly loosened its restrictive policies through actions like abolishing flogging.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Moderate
Very High
2.4
74
0
8.53
-2.88
3
3
Persecution
SN
Senegal
Low
Low
9.3
53
4
96.13
1.42
1
0
Unclassified
RS
Serbia
Moderate
Moderate
8.9
42
4
75.50
1.66
Unclassified
SC
Seychelles
Moderate
Low
8.9
4
75.50
1.29
Unclassified
SL
Sierra Leone
Moderate
Moderate
9.0
4
1.53
1
0
Unclassified
SG
Singapore
Very High
Low
7.8
16
3
65.22
0.89
3
2
Unclassified
SK
Slovakia
Moderate
Moderate
8.5
4
86.75
1.02
1
2
Unclassified
SI
Slovenia
Low
Low
9.5
27
4
92.38
1.68
1
1
Unclassified
SB
Solomon Islands
Low
Low
96.13
1.80
0
0
Unclassified
SO
Somalia
Moderate
High
Extreme
4.3
0
35.00
-2.51
2
2
Persecution
ZA
South Africa
Low
Moderate
8.6
47
4
96.25
2.28
0
1
Unclassified
KR
South Korea
Moderate
High
9.9
53
4
91.05
2.64
1
0
Unclassified
SS
South Sudan
Moderate
Low
0.17
ES
Spain
Moderate
High
9.2
28
4
93.38
1.27
1
2
Unclassified
LK
Sri Lanka
High
Very High
7.6
2
60.76
0.50
1
2
Persecution
SD
Sudan
Very High
Moderate
Very High
5.9
2
3.48
-0.80
3
3
Discrimination
SR
Suriname
Low
Low
9.6
96.13
2.24
1
1
Unclassified
SE
Sweden
Moderate
Moderate
9.9
4
93.38
2.67
2
2
Unclassified
CH
Switzerland
Moderate
Moderate
9.5
26
93.38
1.63
2
2
Unclassified
SY
Syria
Syria has a large majority of Sunni Muslims, at 74% of the population. Alawite, Shi’a, and Isma’ili Muslims comprise 13% of the population. 10% are Assyrians, Maronites, Armenians, and other Christians. Druze account for the final 3% of the population. However, it should be noted that these numbers are difficult to confirm due to the ongoing conflict. The Constitution declares no state religion. However, it does stipulate that the President must be Muslim and that Islamic jurisprudence is the highest law of the land. Membership in certain religious groups are banned and punishable depending on the religion. Those who practice Judaism must register it on their passports and identification cards.
All reports agree that religious freedom in Syria is very low. Reports mainly agree that violence in Syria over the past decade is to blame. They also agree that Turkey’s intervention into Syria has been detrimental to religious freedom. Turkey has supported terrorist groups and shelled many civilians in Rojava, which works to secure religious freedom as a priority for its residents. The refugee crisis created by this violence has led to the displacement of Christians, Muslims, and other religious minorities in Syria as they flee to escape. The Syrian Government has restricted the operations of Jehovah’s Witnesses, prevented Muslims from converting to other religions, and monitored Muslims leaders and mosques.
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Very High
Very High
3.3
2
30.45
-1.69
3
3
Discrimination
TW
Taiwan
Low
Low
9.9
2.60
1
0
Unclassified
TJ
Tajikistan
Tajikistan is predominantly Sunni Muslim, with Sunnis comprising 86% of the population. Shi’a Muslims compose 4%, with the remaining 10% being a mixture of Russian Orthodox, Protestants, Catholics, Jehovah's Witnesses, Buddhists, Jews, Baha’is, and Zoroastrians.
In 2009, the conditions of religious freedom sharply decreased after several religious restriction laws were passed. The Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Unions sets registration mandates, controls the amount of worshipers in a mosque, criminalizes private religious education, bans unregistered religious activity, and institutes state control over the content of sermons. The Tajik Constitution protects freedom of religion and sponsors no religion, but recognizes the “special status” of Muslims. The government often cites “increased tension among religious groups” and “prevention of extremism” as a justification for mass arrests and interrogations of religious leaders.
Reports generally agree that Tajikistan has low religious freedom. However, the reports disagree on how low. The World Index for Moral Freedom ranks Tajikistan a 43.63 out of 100, with 100 being the most religiously free. Pew Social Hostilities Index designates Tajikistan as “Moderate.” This runs counter to Cato, Pew Government Restrictions Index, Open Doors, ACN, and other reports, which give Tajikistan a low religious freedom rating. The reports do, though, agree about the causes of Tajikistan’s low religious freedom. Increased tension among religious groups is why the Government restricts publication and distribution of religious texts. The Government has also cracked down on Muslims by conducting mass arrests and interrogations of religious leaders. Extremism and vague allusions to terrorism have been used as justification to prevent religious practices or restrict religious minorities. Christians in Tajikistan find it hard to gain training to become religious leaders, making their organization nearly impossible.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
High
Very High
3.0
43.63
-2.72
3
2
Discrimination
TZ
Tanzania
High
Moderate
8.0
12
3
0.79
2
1
Discrimination
TH
Thailand
High
High
8.5
13
3
49.78
1.53
3
2
Discrimination
TL
Timor-Leste
Low
Low
9.5
3
1.23
Unclassified
TG
Togo
Moderate
Low
8.1
3
1.32
2
2
Unclassified
TO
Tonga
Low
Low
74.50
Unclassified
TT
Trinidad and Tobago
Low
Low
9.8
24
4
96.13
2.41
2
1
Unclassified
TN
Tunisia
High
High
Very High
7.1
86
3
70.29
0.35
3
3
Discrimination
TR
Turkey
Turkey’s population is overwhelmingly Muslim with Muslims making up 99% of the population, Sunni Muslims make up the majority with Alevi Muslims making the largest religious minority. The remaining 0.2% are made up of atheists, Jews, Christians, and others. The Constitution defines the country as a secular state. However, the state acts in ways to promote Sunni Islam through educational policies and state funding for Sunni Muslim religious services.
The reports generally agree that Turkey has low religious freedom.
The reports acknowledge that Turkey is a secular state, but mainly in name only. The state supports public and private education that promotes Sunni Islam. Christians and Jews can apply for exemptions, but the process is difficult. The state also funds Sunni Muslim religious practices, such as the salaries of imams, constructing mosques, and oversee pilgrimages. For other religions, the training of clergymen has been regulated or prohibited. Non-Muslims and Alevis continue to be faced with discrimination and hate crimes. Property and civil rights for these groups are limited. Christians face discrimination and newly converts from Islam face the worse discrimination.
Special Watch List
Very High
High
Very High
4.2
71
2
31.32
-0.79
3
3
Discrimination
TM
Turkmenistan
The religious majority in Turkmenistan by far is Sunni Muslims (89%), with the second largest group being Orthodox Christians (9%). The 2016 Religion Law makes Turkmenistan a secular state in name only. Religious groups are now required to register with the Minister of Justice, bans exist on private religious worship and education, and prohibitions on the wearing of religious garments in public spaces have been implemented. The State Commission on Religious Organizations and Expert Evaluation of Religious Information Resources oversees the organization of religious groups and approves the appointment of religious leaders.
All the reports agree that Turkmenistan suffers from low religious freedom. However, Pew Social Hostilities Index ranks social religious hostilities as “Low” in Turkmenistan, running counter to the reports which outline social backlash for Christians. Reports agree that this is mainly due to state control over religious activity. Religious groups must register with the government, and practice outside this registration is illegal. Muslims have been targeted by the Turkmen Government, with restrictions on religious holidays and large-scale shutdowns of mosques. Restrictions exist for the practice of religion in private homes or in the military, prisons, or private religious institutions. Punishments are enforced against Christians for not adhering to Islamic beliefs, which are promoted by the State.
Country of Particular Concern
Country of Particular Concern
Very High
Low
Very High
0
5.00
-2.21
3
3
Persecution
TV
Tuvalu
Low
Low
84.88
Unclassified
UG
Uganda
Moderate
Moderate
6.6
16
3
76.05
0.29
2
2
Unclassified
UA
Ukraine
High
High
7.2
46
3
73.01
0.61
3
2
Unclassified
AE
United Arab Emirates
High
Low
6.4
80
1
8.53
0.67
3
3
Discrimination
GB
United Kingdom
Moderate
High
9.6
11
4
93.08
1.42
2
2
Unclassified
US
United States of America
Moderate
Moderate
9.4
10
4
97.12
1.97
1
1
Unclassified
UY
Uruguay
Low
Low
9.8
33
4
97.13
2.14
1
0
Unclassified
UZ
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is largely composed of Sunni Muslims, which make up 88-96% of the population. 2.2% of the population are Russian Orthodox Christian. The remaining 1.8% of the population is atheist, Buddhist, Jewish, and other religions. The Constitution declares Uzbekistan a secular state, but multiple laws have restricted religious freedom in the country. The 1998 Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations has multiple regulations on religious institutions and activities.
The reports generally agree that there is low religious freedom in Uzbekistan. However, the Pew Social Hostilities Index and the World index of Moral Freedom rank Uzbekistan as having more moderate religious freedom compared to other reports. The reports mainly attribute the low score to the 1998 Religion Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Organizations. The law which forced religions to register with the Ministry of Justice and meet burdensome registration requirements. It also bans certain religious topics in public schools, private religious education, and forces people to get a license to publish and distribute religious literature. In 2021 Mirziyoyev signed amendments to the law which loosed some restrictions such as allowing religious garb to be worn in public, but still maintained the heavy restrictions human rights groups protest.
Special Watch List
Very High
Moderate
Very High
0
44.15
-0.21
3
3
Discrimination
VU
Vanuatu
Low
Low
1.89
1
0
Unclassified
VE
Venezuela
Moderate
Moderate
7.2
30
3
71.56
0.52
2
2
Discrimination
VN
Vietnam
Religion is a minority practice in Vietnam, with 20% of the population participating in a religion: 8% of the population is Buddhist while 7% are Christians. The remaining practice Hoa Hao Buddhism, Cao Dai, Evangelical Protestantism, and Islam. The Government has enforced the Law on Belief and Religion, which systematically discriminates against religious minorities of independent religious groups and government-recognized groups. It allows state interference in internal religious affairs, requires religions to register, and gives authorities power to prosecute unregistered religious activity.
Reports all generally agree that there is low religious freedom in Vietnam. However, two reports standout from the rest: Pew’s Social Hostilities Index ranks Vietnam as having “Moderate” religious social tensions, and ADL finds that only 6% of the population harbor Anti-Semitic beliefs. The reports, barring the exceptions, generally agree that State interference in internal religious matters is a main reason for low religious freedom. Religious activity that goes against the national interest is banned by the State. The State also requires religions to register with the government, and religions operating outside face persecution. Recently, the Government has been arresting religious freedom advocates or believers and imprisoning them for lengthy sentences in poor prison conditions. COVID-19 has led to further Christian discrimination in distribution of resources in rural areas.
