The Constitution provides for freedom of religion; however, the law prohibits the public practice of religion by unregistered groups.

There also are numerous unregistered small religious groups that operate freely.

Government authorities have disrupted meetings of unregistered religious groups.

The Government restricted unregistered religious groups from establishing places of worship, and violations constituted an administrative offense.

Foreign members of registered and unregistered religious groups continued to be denied entry visas.

However, a number of members of unregistered religious groups are recorded under the recognized religions.

Many unregistered groups continue to meet, however, leaving themselves vulnerable to selective implementation of the law by authorities.

One disadvantage of not registering is the inability of unregistered groups to apply for government or private loans and benefits as an association.

Counting unregistered groups, some estimates place the number as high as two million.

During the reporting period it remained difficult, particularly for unregistered groups, to rent a public facility.