Report says worldwide religious freedom deteriorates
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 3 May 2016 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Report says worldwide religious freedom deteriorates, 3 May 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/576900a315.html [accessed 5 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
May 03, 2016
The latest report by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom says religious freedom across the world deteriorated in 2015.
According to the report released on May 2, the global refugee crisis, political strife, and economic dislocation have contributed to an increase in "societal intolerance."
The commission identified 17 countries as "Tier One" concerns, meaning they have "particularly severe violations of religious freedom that are systematic, ongoing, and egregious." Among countries listed in that category are Iran, Iraq, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan.
Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia were among 10 countries categorized as "Tier Two," meaning religious-freedom violations in those countries are serious enough to require close monitoring.
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
