A decision of the Tajikistan government to include a question about religious affiliation on the nationwide 2020 census is raising concern among citizens and human rights groups.
This is the first time the Tajikistan census has included a question about religious affiliation since 1937, when the country was part of the former Soviet Union.
On the 2020 census, taken Oct. 1–15, respondents could choose from “Muslim,” “Christian,” “non-believer,” “refused to answer” or “other (specify).”
The concern is that Tajik officials might target people because of their response or because of their refusal to answer.
The Tajik regime has a history of punishing the exercise of religious freedom.
The United Nations Human Rights Committee said the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights states that “no one can be compelled to reveal his thoughts or adherence to a religion or belief.”
Tajikistan is No. 31 on Open Doors’ 2020 World Watch List of places most difficult to be a Christian. (Forum 18)
Share with others: