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Religious Freedom Summary* (1997) An overwhelming majority of the population is Sunni Muslim. The Constitution prohibits discrimination before the law based on religion or religious belief but establishes an Ulamas Council, which advises the President, Prime Minister, President of the Federal Assembly, the Council of Isles, and the island governors on whether bills, ordinances, decrees, and laws are in conformity with the principles of Islam. The Government permits non-Muslims to practice their faith, and Christian missionaries may work in local hospitals and schools, but may not proselytize. President Taki's 1996 bans on alcohol and immodest dress remain in effect. *Source: County Reports on Human Rights Practices for 1997, U.S. Department of State |