Kyrgyzstan To Tighten Laws On Religious Groups

(RFE/RL)

BISHKEK, July 12, 2007 (RFE/RL) -- The head of the Kyrgyz State Agency for Religious Affairs says his organization is working on five draft bills aimed at tightening control over the activities of religious organizations.

Toygonbek Kalmatov, speaking today to RFE/RL’s Kyrgyz Service, said some 500 religious organizations were operating in the country illegally.

He also said authorities should focus not only on repression, but also educate people about illegal religious groups and the dangers that they pose to society.