Bahá'í
Academics Resource Library
HRP: Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
IRF: Annual Reports to Congress on International Religious Freedom
FREEDOM OF RELIGION
Islam is the state religion,
and the Basic Charter preserves the freedom to practice religious rites,
in accordance with tradition, provided that it does not breach public order.
The Basic Charter also provides that Shari'a (Islamic Law) is the basis
for legislation. The Government permits worship for non-Muslim residents;
however, non-Muslim religious organizations must be registered with the
Government, and the Government restricts some of their activities....
Citizens and noncitizen residents are free to discuss their religious
beliefs; however, the Government prohibits non-Muslims from proselytizing
Muslims. Under Islamic law, a Muslim who recants belief in Islam would
be considered an apostate and dealt with under applicable Islamic legal
procedure. Non-Muslims are permitted to change their religious affiliation
to Islam. The authorities reportedly have asked members of the Baha'i community
not to proselytize, in accordance with the country's law and custom.
In June the departure from the country of a foreign Baha'i due to termination
of his employment may have been hastened by the proselytizing activities
of his wife. The authorities requested members of the Baha'i community
to sign statements that they will not proselytize, in accordance with the
country's law and custom.