Last week the US Commission on International Religious Freedom learned that the previous administration's State Department quietly released a list of "countries of particular concern" just 4 days before President Obama was sworn in. The yearly list marks those governments that are especially abusive of religious freedom, and once again some countries the Commission finds most troubling were left off the list, or were given a pass on sanctions.
"The commission is disappointed that Secretary Rice refused to designate any new countries and that waivers were granted for both Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia," said Felice Gaer, the group's chair. "Religious freedom conditions in Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia are appalling and a specific U.S. government response is required." The commission had wanted Rice to add Iraq, Pakistan, Turkmenistan and Vietnam to the list. Such a designation can bring about a range of U.S. sanctions unless a waiver is granted.
The Commission's press release also takes issue with the timing of the Bush State Department's action.
