There was no change in the status of respect for religious
freedom during the period covered by this report, and government
policy continued to contribute to the generally free practice of
religion. The Government and the religious communities
historically have had good relations; however, as in previous
years, the Government was critical of and harassed religious
leaders who spoke out against the Government's ongoing campaign
of violent intimidation against opposition supporters. Church
leaders and members who criticized the Government faced arrest
and detention. The generally amicable relations between the
various religious communities contributed to religious freedom.
The U.S. Government discusses religious freedom issues with the
Government in the context of its overall dialog and policy of
promoting human rights. Section I. Religious Demography The
country has a total area of 240,122 square miles, and its
population is estimated at 11.6 million. Between 60 and 70
percent of the population belong to the m