E/CN.4/1997/91
page 9
law on military service. It is essential, according to Bulgaria, that the
religious communities should not be in a situation at variance with the
national legislation.
31.
Croatia, referring to the case of a Jehovah's Witness and conscientious
objector, drew attention to its legislation guaranteeing and instituting
alternative civilian service.
32.
Indonesia pointed out that religious tolerance was the very foundation
of the unity of the country, characterized as it was by a very great ethnic
and religious diversity. Indonesian legislation was described as guaranteeing
religious freedom as well as the freedom to establish places of worship. It
was stated that practice was in conformity with that legislation. The
prohibition of the Baha'is, the Jehovah's Witnesses and fundamentalist sects
of Islam is, according to the Indonesian authorities, a measure taken by the
Government in conformity with article 1, paragraph 3, of the Declaration on
the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on
Religion or Belief. Indonesia also considered that the allegations of
unilateral appointment of Muslim, Catholic and Protestant teachers by the
authorities were completely unfounded and that, on the contrary, the principle
of flexibility determined the appointment of teachers of religion. The
allegations of arson concerning two churches and a temple at Banyu Biru and
Nusakarta were also challenged by the Indonesian authorities.
33.
Kuwait provided a general response, referring for the most part to its
positive law and stating that judicial cases are examined in accordance with
the laws of the country.
34.
The Lao People's Democratic Republic provided information on its
legislation in the area of tolerance and non-discrimination with regard
to religion or belief and denied reports of an official campaign against
Christians. It was, however, emphasized that some Christians and
non-governmental organizations had used religion for political ends, contrary
to the laws in force, and were trying to convert people to Christianity in
exchange for material assistance and promises of exemption from military
service or State taxes. Those responsible for such disturbances of public
order and social stability, whatever their religion, are liable to
prosecution.
35.
In its reply concerning the detention and subsequent hospitalization
of a Muslim who had converted to Christianity and been found guilty of
evangelism, Morocco stated that he had left the hospital at Inezgane
on 3 June 1996.
36.
Mexico provided detailed information and documentation on State
initiatives and action to promote reconciliation and respect for the religious
freedom of the Chamula and Catholic evangelical religious minorities.
37.
Romania disputed the allegations of discrimination against the Romanian
Evangelical Alliance, especially as regards the procedures for approving
construction permits for places of worship. Moreover, it claimed that the two
“Voice of Gospel” radio stations had received authorization from the National