Baku Disagrees with European Commission Report on Religious Discrimination

The State Committee for Work with Religious Associations of Azerbaijan considers biased some of the conclusions reflected in the latest European Commission against Racism and Intolerance report on Azerbaijan.

“The review says that some religious groups experience discrimination, that they are subjected to pressure from law enforcement agencies. We unequivocally declare that in our country there is no discrimination based on religion,” reads the statement issued by the Committee Thursday, report various Azerbaijani media.

The agency also considers unfounded the allegation that the authorities are using the process of registering religious organizations against certain “undesirable” communities. In this regard, the Committee for Work with Religious Associations states that since early 2009, 30 religious organizations have been denied re-registration, and this decision was based solely on legislation.

At the same time, these organizations, after eliminating the indicated shortcomings, can re-apply for registration. Moreover, since the re-registration process has been in place, no religious group’s activities have been revoked.

As for police intervention in community activities, this, as it is said in the statement, only occurs when the community has violated the law and in no way can be construed as restricting religious freedom.