E/CN.4/1991/56
page 19
Colombia
In its reply, the Government of Colombia did not refer specifically to
this question, but it stated:
"... for historical reasons, Catholicism is the religion of most
Colombians. For this and other reasons, a Concordat was agreed with the
Holy See and it governs relations between the State and the Church ... In
this regard, it should be pointed out that the Concordat is not inconsistent
with recognition of freedom of conscience, nor does it impair the right of
non-Catholics to immunity from coercion in religious matters, nor does it
jeopardize the equality of all citizens before the law ... In Colombia,
minority groups are not, because of their religious practices, a target of
flagrant violations on grounds of religious belief."
Cuba
"The right of individuals to practise their religion, even when they form
a minority, is protected under constitutional rules. Article 54 of the
Constitution specifically sets out this right."
Dominica
"Dominica protects the right of its citizens to practise their faith when
they constitute a religious minority, under the Commonwealth of Dominica
Constitution Order 1978."
Dominican Republic
"In our country, it is recognized that the chief aim of the State is to
afford effective protection of the rights of the individual and to maintain
the means for gradual improvement within a system of freedom for the
individual and social justice compatible with public order, the general
welfare and the rights of all."
Ecuador
"Ecuador has not had an official religion since 1897, and hence no church
enjoys special protection. Nevertheless, the population of Ecuador is, in the
main, of the Roman Catholic faith. Despite this majority, various religions
are freely practised in Ecuador and indeed the most varied sects have emerged
in recent years. They too enjoy all the necessary guarantees to manifest
their beliefs in public".
Germany
"Article 4(2) of the Basic Law guarantees the undisturbed practice of
religion. Thus, in conjunction with Article 3(3) - no one may be prejudiced
or favoured because of his sex, his parentage, his race, his language, his
homeland and origin, his faith, or his religious or political opinions
(emphasis added) - all persons, therefore, including minorities, may practise
their religion freely and without hindrance.
"These rights are also upheld by the country's laws. For instance,
sections 166 to 168 of the Penal Code refer to violations of the freedom of