Azerbaijan

The level of persecution of Christians in Azerbaijan increased during the last period. A new repressive Religion Law was introduced on 31 May 2009 which grants more control to the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations. All religious organizations have to re-register by 1 January 2010. Some Christian groups did appeal in court because their registrations were denied, but the courts are well known for their corruptness and Islam-friendliness.

The situation for Christians became more difficult when the authorities noticed that more people became Christians and churches were growing. This resulted in more complicated procedures for building new churches. Protestant churches are often considered as sectarian and a threat to stability. Furthermore, employers are often unwilling to keep Christians in their employment. Also censorship of Christian literature got tougher this year.

(January 2010)

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