The Constitution provides for freedom of religion; however,
other laws and policies restricted this right in some
circumstances. There was no change in the status of respect for
religious freedom by the Government during the reporting period.
The Government does not tolerate speech or actions that it deems
could adversely affect racial or religious harmony. There were
no reports of societal abuses or discrimination based on
religious affiliation, belief, or practice during the reporting
period. The U.S. Government discusses religious freedom with the
Government as part of the U.S. Government's overall policy of
promoting human rights. Section I. Religious Demography The
country has an area of 270 square miles and a population of 4.8
million, of whom 3.6 million are citizens or permanent
residents. According to the last decennial census taken in 2000,
85 percent of citizens and permanent residents profess a
religion. Approximately 42.5 percent of the population is
Buddhist, 15 percent Muslim, 15 percent Christ