E/CN.4/2006/5/Add.4 page 18 D. The current situation 89. The debate on this matter and the different measures that were taken at the governmental and parliamentary level in the second part of the 1990s undermined the right to freedom of religion or belief and raised serious concerns about religious intolerance. In particular, the establishment of a list, as well as the awareness-raising policies that were carried out, raised serious concerns in terms of freedom of religion or belief. 90. Nevertheless, in the last few years the authorities have begun to take measures to redress the balance. The Special Rapporteur notes in this regard the government instructions adopted in May 2005 by the former Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin and which highlights, inter alia, the somewhat inappropriate (peu pertinent) character of the list. She also noted the more balanced approach to the phenomenon adopted by MIVILUDES. 91. However, after she had completed her visit, it was reported to the Special Rapporteur that, following a change in its staff, MIVILUDES was allegedly about to return to a more hard-line position vis-à-vis the sectes. VIII. FREEDOM OF RELIGION IN PRISONS 92. During her mission, the Special Rapporteur gathered information on the status of freedom of religion or belief in prisons and other detention facilities, including by visiting the Prison des Baumettes in Marseilles. In this regard, the French authorities demonstrated a high level of transparency and great cooperation. During the visit to the prison, the Special Rapporteur met with various representatives of the prison personnel and a number of detainees and prisoners from different religious backgrounds. 93. While there were some complaints about the possibilities offered to inmates in order to practise their religion, there was generally a level of satisfaction among them about the respect for freedom of religion in the prison. IX. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 94. The Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief was impressed by the expertise that exists in France on the issues relevant to her mandate. The visit was of the highest interest because France is a unique model. However, the complexity of the situation means that it is not easy to draw conclusions. Nevertheless, the Special Rapporteur remains convinced that French society will be able to overcome the obstacles as its commitment to fundamental rights runs deep and is the foundation of the Republic. 95. The Special Rapporteur would first like to highlight that the Government of France generally respects the right to freedom of religion or belief, as it is protected by the international treaties to which France is a party. Furthermore, the strength of its judiciary undoubtedly constitutes a guarantee of these main values. However, she wishes to highlight a number of areas of concern.