While the government generally respects the right of religious freedom, the
country has been criticized by the U.N. and Amnesty International for extrajudicial
killings by the police and security units and widespread use of torture.
According to the U.S. International Religious Freedom Report, such human rights
abuses have at times occurred at religious sites.
The constitution provides for freedom of religion and, according to the US State Department, the government generally
does not restrict it in practice. Religious groups must be approved and registered with the Ministry of Territorial
Administration in order to function legally.
The constitution declares that the human being, without distinction as to race, religion, sex or belief, possesses
inalienable and sacred rights. No one shall be harassed because of his origin, opinions or beliefs in religious,
philosophical or political matters, subject to respect for public order. Freedom of religion and freedom to practice
a religion are guaranteed. The state is described as secular, and the neutrality and independence of the state
in respect of all religions are guaranteed.
According to Article 1 of the Constitution, the Republic of Cameroon shall be a Unitary State. It shall be one
and indivisible, democratic, secular and dedicated to social service. It shall ensure the equality of all citizens
before the law.
2003 U.S. State Department International Religious Freedom Report on Cameroon
The Oslo Coalition on Freedom of Religion or Belief report on Cameroon
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