A/HRC/13/40/Add.4 Christians to renounce their faith.20 The situation seems to have vastly improved recently, however the Special Rapporteur remains concerned with individual cases as well as with certain practices and policies that clearly violate freedom of religion or belief and are contrary to international norms, as well as guarantees provided under the Constitution. 62. The authorities seem to have a strong preoccupation in maintaining social harmony and unity. Religion is regarded as a controversial issue, especially when it is linked to foreign “divisive” influences and Christianity in particular is seen by the Government as dividing people’s loyalty. In addition, the authorities are generally suspicious of organized religious activities, especially where missionary activities and active proselytism are alleged. 63. Although the Constitution of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic does not proclaim any official State religion, many of the Special Rapporteur’s interlocutors indicated that the authorities have in fact embraced Buddhism and that high officials often link Lao nationalism with Buddhist identity. The Special Rapporteur recognizes that Buddhist traditions are a rich legacy for the country and indeed need to be cherished. However, such an approach must not marginalize members of religious minorities or discriminate against them. The Special Rapporteur would like to reiterate that the test of freedom of religion or belief lies in the level of tolerance extended to religious minorities. In addition, interreligious and intrareligious dialogues at various levels may help to defuse tensions and promote tolerance and mutual understanding. 64. There appears to be a growing awareness within the Government of the need for respecting religious diversity and the Special Rapporteur hopes that this new trend will be sustained and fostered. The political will of the Government and of the political party will be critical in strengthening respect for religious freedom and diversity. However, freedom of religion or belief, like any other human right, can only be fully enjoyed in an environment where there is a vigilant civil society and freedom of expression, as well as independent institutions and the rule of law. 65. The Special Rapporteur would like to make the following recommendations with regard to Decree No. 92/PM for the Management and Protection of Religious Activities; allegations of forced conversions and evictions; the isolation of religious minorities; liberty of movement in the context of religious activities; freedom of religion or belief of persons deprived of their liberty; and some beliefs and customs of animists or ancestor worshippers. 66. As the National Assembly is currently contemplating the introduction of legislation to replace Decree No. 92/PM, the Special Rapporteur would like to refer to her legal analysis and observations in this regard (see paras. 24–39 above). Any legislative text should avoid imposing vaguely worded obligations on religious communities, including with regard to registration procedures, and should discontinue the extensive oversight powers currently given to various government entities in this regard. Explanatory policy directions should be passed on to the provincial and district levels in order to avoid any discriminatory interpretation to the detriment of religious minorities. 20 GE.10-10542 See E/CN.4/1997/91, paras. 18–24 and 34; E/CN.4/1999/58, paras. 86–88; E/CN.4/2000/65, para. 88; E/CN.4/2001/63, para. 123; A/56/253, paras. 23–24; E/CN.4/2002/73, para. 103; A/57/274, para. 60; A/58/296, para. 86; E/CN.4/2004/63, paras. 80–81; A/59/366, paras. 51–52; and A/HRC/10/8/Add.1, paras. 129–134. 19