The 1991 Constitution of Colombia guarantees freedom of religion stating that every individual has the right to profess his/her belief and to disseminate it individually or collectively. In addition, the right of parents to select the type of education for their minor children is recognized. No person in state institutions may be obliged to take religious instruction.
The right of religious freedom is generally respected. Roman Catholic instruction is no longer required in schools, and in 1994 the Constitutional Court ruled that any official government reference to the religious character of the country is unconstitutional. Missionary work amongst the indigenous population is allowed so long as it does not endanger their survival on traditional lands. Religious organizations are able to obtain legal status under the law on the freedom of cults.
Internal political conflicts and narco-terrorism have complicated the religious situation for religious organizations which have been promoting peace and non-violence. there have been some attacks on church personnel. On May 19, two employees of a Jesuit human rights organization were murdered. As yet no suspects have been found.
In April 1997, the Ministry of Education issued orders for the Mennonite Biblical Seminary to close. Although the ministry stated that this action was taken because the college failed to meet educational requirements, the Mennonite Church believes that it was because the college had 75 draft age young men enrolled in a peacemaker training program. Young men enrolled in religious training in Colombia are allowed by law to defer their military service. The Ministry subsequently rescinded its order, leaving the status of the students in limbo.
The whereabouts of three members of the New Tribes Mission who were kidnapped four years ago by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) remains unknown. they are believed to still be alive.
2003 U.S. State Department International Religious Freedom Report on Colombia
Search Amazon.com for books on religious freedom in Columbia