Restrictions have finally been lifted on a group of Maldivian Christians, some of whom have spent over 4 months in prison. Whilst the believers are now physically free, serious question marks remain over their freedom to practice their faith.In this self-professed 100% Muslim country, being Maldivian is thus considered synonymous with being Muslim and no Christian activity has, in the past, been tolerated. In June the Government began their unannounced searches of the homes of those individuals suspected of being believers. Possessions were confiscated and over 20 individuals were imprisoned. The whole process bypassed the judicial system, and though charges were alleged, no trial ever took place. 19 foreigners were also expelled from the islands in the crackdown.

An international campaign was launched by a group of NGOs working together, including CSW. The Maldivian Government has consistently denied that individuals have been imprisoned for their faith. Tight media control has ensured that only one or two articles confirming the arrests ever reached the outside world. Whilst the Maldivian Government seemed initially resistant to pressure, they unexpectedly began releasing the prisoners to house arrest in late August. More releases followed and in the last week restrictions have finally been lifted on all the individuals involved.

Pressure was put on the believers to recant their faith during their imprisonment and they were all forced to read the Koran and undertake the five-daily Muslim prayers. One prisoner was threatened with death by a prison guard who said that she was an "infidel". In spite of this pressure and intimidation, a prisoner was reported to have said, "They can keep me in prison for 10 years, but I will never turn back to Islam".

Another noted that all believers in the Maldives are 'prisoners' because their ability to think and reason has been imprisoned. "Not a single one of us has permission to think for ourselves". At CSW's recent conference a Maldives-watcher stated, "They (the prisoners) were under no illusion as to the probable cost of their faith -and they were willing to pay for it. They did not ask to be given a life free from persecution, but they knew that God's power, love and presence would be with them to help them through". He went on to speculate that Islam in this context is being used by the government as a tool to maintain political control.

CSW's Religious Liberty Director, Tina Lambert added, "As we approach the celebration of 50 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is right and proper to encourage nations like the Maldives to adhere to international standards which protect freedom of religion (Article 18). Whilst we are, of course, relieved by the release of these individuals, the situation in this "holiday paradise" has yet to improve, and discreet pressure must be maintained".

For more information please contact Tina Lambert at the CSW Office on 0181 942 8810.