Kazakhstan under fire over new religion law

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 Kazakhstani parliament passed the "Law on Amendments and Additions to Several Legislative Acts on Questions of Freedom of Conscience and Religious Associations" last Wednesday, according to Forum 18 news agency.

The decision came despite reaching an agreement with the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) just one day earlier to allow the security body to conduct a legislative review of the text. The OSCE, which Kazakhstan currently chairs, had voiced concern over the draft law in October, when some critics were questioning the lack of public consultation and secrecy in the revision stages – the amended text was not made public until last Wednesday.

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.

CSW said large fines were anticipated and expressed concern that many religious groups will be unable to re-register.

“There are widespread fears about the impact on religious activity. Even the work of faith based charities may now be under threat,” the group warned.

The law has now been passed to President Nursultan Nazarbaev for his approval. According to Forum 18 New Service, the president now has a month from receipt of the law to sign it, reject it or send it to the Constitutional Council.

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.

“It is inconceivable that Kazakhstan could take on the chairmanship of the OSCE in 2010 without addressing this situation and ensuring that religious freedom is protected.”