Religious freedom conditions in Laos remain poor. The government uses Decree 315 to deprive the religious freedom of minority religious communities. Central and local governments use administrative regulations to hinder joining Buddhist religious orders and to prevent the construction of minority houses or worship.
Source: Traditional lao village with temple stairs and mountain background near Vang Vieng, Laos, Shuttershock / Mazur Travel
Religious freedom conditions in Kazakhstan are moving in a positive direction as the government has made a concerted effort to improve its record; nevertheless, significant problems persist. The 2011 religion law maintains elements that systematically restrict religious freedom, especially onerous registration requirements and the mandatory “expert” review of founding documents and religious literature.
Source: Orthodox Easter service without public due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in the Voznesenskiy cathedral in Almaty, REUTERS / Mikheyev
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