U.S. places Uzbekistan on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated “severe violations of religious freedom”

Michael R. Pompeo, the U.S. Secretary of State, said on Dec. 11, 2018 in a statement that Uzbekistan is on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated “severe violations of religious freedom.”

“On November 28, 2018, I designated Burma, China, Eritrea, Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, as Countries of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 for having engaged in or tolerated ”systematic, ongoing, [and] egregious violations of religious freedom.” I also placed Comoros, Russia, and Uzbekistan on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated “severe violations of religious freedom.” Finally, I designated al-Nusra Front, al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula, al-Qa'ida, al-Shabab, Boko Haram, the Houthis, ISIS, ISIS-Khorasan, and the Taliban as Entities of Particular Concern,” Mr. Pompeo noted.

According to the U.S. Secretary of State, safeguarding religious freedom is vital to ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity. These designations are aimed at improving the lives of individuals and the broader success of their societies. I recognize that several designated countries are working to improve their respect for religious freedom; I welcome such initiatives and look forward to continuing the dialogue.

“The United States remains committed to working with governments, civil society organizations, and religious leaders to advance religious freedom around the world,” Mr. Pompeo added.