Vietnam adopts national decree to govern religious activities
HANOI - Vietnam has issued a national decree on the activities of its state-sponsored religions which reiterates its long-standing prohibition of groups not recognized by the government.
Under the decree, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press on Tuesday, citizens are banned from using religious freedom to undermine national independence and unification, incite violence or cause division among people. It also says religious activities that threaten national security, social order or unity will be prohibited.
Vietnam currently only recognizes six government-sanctioned religions. However, several banned churches continue to operate without Hanoi's approval.
International human rights groups, the European Union and the United States have harshly criticized Vietnam over the jailing of several Buddhists and Christians who subscribe to churches not backed by the government.
Several dissidents placed in jail or under house arrest have frequently spoken out against the government's human rights record, specifically on religious freedom. Hanoi maintains that no one is jailed for religious reasons.
The legislation, which has six chapters and 41 articles, was signed into law by the chairman of the National Assembly on June 18 and announced by the president's office Monday. It takes effect Nov. 15.
The decree also requires clergy in all state-sponsored religions to seek permission from local authorities before holding religious ceremonies or preaching outside their home churches. All annual religious activities also must be registered with village officials and any additional programs are subject to government permission.
Many of the provisions are a reiteration of existing policies, such as the need to get government approval for the establishment, separation or merger of religious organizations. The appointment of clergy by a foreign authority, including by the pope, must also receive prior permission from the Vietnamese government.
Buddhism is the largest religion in Vietnam with an estimated 9.1 million followers, Catholicism is next with some 5.3 million followers. Other religions recognized by the government are Protestantism, Islam, Hoa Hao and Cao Dai.
Under the decree, the six state-approved religions - which have about 20 million followers in Vietnam - are guaranteed freedom of belief and fair, equal treatment by law.
The Associated Press - July 13, 2004.
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