Azerbaijan protects freedom of religion
By Nigar Orujova
Azerbaijan that has recently made amendments to the law on freedom of religion and fight against religious extremism is not intended to limit the freedom of religion in the country.
The State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations stresses that the country is not limiting the freedom of religion or banning religious ceremonies.
“Freedom of religion in the country is under the protection of the state, the right of every citizen regardless of religion is protected,” the committee noted.
Azerbaijan, a secular state with predominantly Muslim population is tolerant to all other religions flourishing in the country.
However, the fragile situation in the world has also imposed Azerbaijan to strengthen fight against religious extremism.
Recently, a criminal group operating under the guise of religion has been neutralized in the country.
Religious radicalism and other negative factors are not inherent in Azerbaijani society, Fuad Alasgarov, head of department on work with law enforcement bodies at the presidential administration, believes.
The updated law said persons engaged in religious extremist activities, will bear criminal, administrative and civil liability.
The country also banned people with religious education received abroad to implement Islamic rites and ceremonies in Azerbaijan, as well as to preach in mosques and occupy leading positions there.
However, people who have received religious education abroad will be able to work in other areas than this one without any limitations.
Moreover, Azerbaijan will introduce a ban on the assessment of employees of a number of organizations on their political views and religion.
Azerbaijan also plans to promote the religious education in the country and create a new religious university.
However, religious structures that want to function in the country should know that Azerbaijan may increase the amount of fines for violation of the rules of the activity of religious structures.