Malaysia (45th Session)

This report highlights the continuing challenges to freedom of religion and expression in Malaysia. In particular, it addresses the criminalization of blasphemy and proselytism, as well as the effects of religious harmony laws and the mandatory disclosure of religious affiliation in identity cards on the enjoyment of these fundamental freedoms.

Russian Federation (44th Session)

This report brings attention to the situation of freedom of religion and expression in the Russian Federation, with particular attention to persons belonging to religious minorities.

Bangladesh (44th Session)

This report addresses the state of freedom of religion, of expression, and of association, as well as the situation of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

Uzbekistan (44th Session)

This report brings attention to the situation of freedom of religion and expression in Uzbekistan, with particular attention to persons belonging to religious minorities. Notably, it highlights the barriers related to the registration and operations of unregistered religious groups.

United Arab Emirates (43rd Session)

This report outlines the situation of freedom of religion and freedom of expression in the
United Arab Emirates (hereinafter, the ‘UAE’).

Israel (43rd Session)

This report examines the discriminatory impact of laws and policies relating to the registration of religious groups and the ownership of religious property and heritage sites. This report also outlines the rising trend of social hostility faced by Christians within the country.

Sri Lanka (42nd Session)

UPR

Sri Lanka (42nd Session)

ADF International is a faith-based legal advocacy organization that protects fundamental freedoms and promotes the inherent dignity of all people. This report outlines the continued lack of respect for the rights to freedom of religion or belief and expression in Sri Lanka. In particular, it raises serious concerns over laws and policies discriminating against religious minorities, as well as the lack of legal protection for non-coercive forms of proselytism. Furthermore, it addresses the grave impact of increasing mob violence and hostility towards religious minorities, including Christian and Muslim communities, and related impunity.

Pakistan (42nd Session)

UPR

Pakistan (42nd Session)

ADF International is a faith-based legal advocacy organization that protects fundamental freedoms and promotes the inherent dignity of all people. This report highlights the ongoing violations of freedom of religion and expression in Pakistan resulting, inter alia, from laws criminalizing blasphemy and defamation as well as from the increasing social hostility and mob violence directed against persons belonging to religious minorities. It also draws attention to a worrying trend in abductions with the purpose of forced conversion of women and children, often in connection with a forced marriage.

Pastor Premnath: India

Pastor Premnath spent 150 days in jail after a hostile group invaded his prayer meeting and falsely accused him of engaging in forced conversions. He is now on trial.