The constitution and other laws and policies protect religious freedom and, in practice, the government generally respected religious freedom. The government did not demonstrate a trend toward either improvement or deterioration in respect for and protection of the right to religious freedom. The government did, however, undertake positive engagement with the Council of Churches and other religious groups as part of its overall effort to strengthen civil society.
There were few reports of societal abuses or discrimination based on religious affiliation, belief, or practice.
As part of its overall policy to promote human rights, the U.S. government maintained an open dialogue with the government and all religious groups in the country on religious freedom issues. Religious leaders were invited to participate in official events sponsored by the embassy, and U.S. government officials, including the ambassador, frequently participated in local religious and cultural events.