Zhogorku Kenesh of Kyrgyzstan approved 2 laws concerning religious issues. The Law On Freedom of Religion and Religious Associations and the Law on amendments to the legislative acts introduce significant restrictions, Fergana reports.
The laws ban women from wearing niqab, hijab and burka in government institutions and public places, except for the cases related to medical indications, professional activity or cultural events.
The laws ban the formation of religious political parties and the use of religious themes in campaigning. They restrict the distribution of religious literature in public places and educational institutions, and require religious events in special institutions to be approved by the authorities. Particular attention is paid to combating religious discrimination and obtaining official registration for religious activities.
