A/HRC/25/56/Add.1 generally enforces these protections. Muslims and Christians are found in every region, and large cities have significant populations of both groups. Anglophone regions of the western part of the country are largely Protestant, while the francophone regions of the southern and western areas are mostly Catholic. In the northern regions, the dominant Fulani (or Peuhl) ethnic group is mainly Muslim, but the overall population is fairly evenly divided among Muslims, Christians and followers of indigenous religious beliefs. Indigenous religious beliefs are commonly practiced in rural areas. 64. The Independent Expert met leaders of Pentecostal churches, who raised concerns, including with regard to registration processes that they believe discriminate against them. Although the history of the Pentecostal Church in Cameroon reportedly dates back to 1958, leaders stated that they have not been granted the same recognition as other faiths. Despite an increase in followers, pastors noted official and wider social discrimination against their churches and congregations and negative perceptions of them as “sects” posing a danger to those who join. One leader referred to “open expressions of hatred” in the media, portrayals of them dividing families, and hostility that “makes it difficult for individuals to live openly according to their faith”. They described persistent harassment and persecution, including the arrest of pastors on charges that they consider unjust or fabricated. 65. Pentecostal Church leaders pointed out that many churches had not received authorization to function even though they had fulfilled all the requirements, and were therefore forced to function without legal status. They stated that, despite prior authorization received from the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization and background checks having been conducted, their files were frequently “lost” or blocked at some stage prior to completion, sometimes for several years. The authorities “refused to collaborate at every level”. Leaders called for open and transparent procedures for authorization, with clear criteria and time frames that should be adhered to, and refusals for authorization clearly explained. 66. Pentecostal leaders raised concerns about the closure of more than 30 churches in Yaoundé and Bamenda in August and September 2013 by written instruction of senior divisional officers “for activities contrary to the law and good morals”, and reportedly based on an order of the President. Reports suggest that further closures may be planned. Many churches were identified as “clandestine”, functioning without full legal status. Media reports highlighted allegations of illegal and immoral activities in some churches as justification for the closures. 67. Leaders strongly refuted accusations of illegal activity by most churches, adding that any allegations made should be investigated and individuals be prosecuted if found guilty of illegal acts. They felt, however, that many churches were being collectively punished for the actions of a few, given that the majority of churches are law-abiding. They added that they had not been consulted before the closures. Pastors stated that there is a climate of hostility towards Pentecostal churches that is being fuelled by inflammatory media coverage and the statements of politicians. They called for international and national laws on freedom of religion and belief, non-discrimination and minority rights to be implemented fully for all religious minorities. IX. Linguistic minority issues 68. Article 1 of the Constitution establishes that English and French are the official languages of Cameroon, and that both languages have the same status. The State is to guarantee the promotion of bilingualism throughout the country, endeavour to protect and promote national languages. French and English were introduced during the colonial period. After independence and reunification in 1961, Cameroon opted for a policy of 17