Religious freedom conditions in Indonesia are generally trending negatively. The government continues to prosecute blasphemy allegations and to impose disproportionate prison sentences. Hardliners and other intolerant groups continue to threaten houses of worship associated with minority faiths, including by exploiting the 2006 Joint Regulation on Houses of Worship.
Source: Balinese Hindus perform sacred Telek dance at a festival in Klungkung, Bali, REUTERS / Christo
Religious freedom conditions in India are taking a drastic turn downward, with national and various state governments tolerating widespread harassment and violence against religious minorities. The BJP-led government enacted the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), which provides a fast track to Indian citizenship only for non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan already residing in India. This potentially exposes millions of Muslims to detention, deportation and statelessness when the government completes its planned nationwide National Register of Citizens.
Source: A Sikh devotee takes dip in pond at Golden temple on 539th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in Amritsar, REUTERS / Sharma
Jan 17, 2014
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
January 16, 2014| By Robert P. George and Katrina Lantos Swett
The following op-ed appeared in CNN World on January 16, 2014.
Editor's note: Robert P. George and Katrina Lantos Swett serve as chairman and vice chairwoman, respectively, of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. The views expressed are their own.
National Religious Freedom Day, being marked today in the United States, reminds us that freedom of religion or belief is a pivotal human right, central to this country's history and heritage.It is also recognized as such by the United Nations and other international bodies. Yet the issue frequently sparks debates that too often generate more heat than light.
That the mere mention of religious freedom triggers such powerful emotions, in the United States and overseas, helps explain why this critical right has not been accorded the centrality and respect it deserves, especially as a component of U.S. foreign policy.But whatever the reason, the United States must still look closely at the issue - and why it is key to successful U.S. foreign policy.
To interview a USCIRF Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at 202-786-0613 or [email protected].