ODIHR/OSCE called Kazakhstan to review Religious Law

Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), Ambassador Janez Lenarčič is concerned about Kazkahstan law On religious activities and religious institutions that was adopted by Kazakhstan Parliament, OSCE official website writes. "The new law appears to unnecessarily restrict the freedom of religion or belief and is poised to limit the exercise of this freedom in Kazakhstan," Lenarčič said. Ambassador noted that a new law will be a step back in Kazakhstan's obligations to the OSCE. Lenarčič caleld to review this document before its signature by the President. He hopes that the law will be reviewed “in light of the country’s international obligations.” Religious Law was adopted by Kazakhstan Parliament on September 29. It stipualtes re-registration of religious organizations and bans unregistered religious activities at the territory of Kazakhstan. “It is disappointing to see that the law does not take into account the earlier comments by the ODIHR and that it was passed without significant public consultation,” Lenarčič said. The law was submitted for signature of Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev.