Law, religion and human rights in Botswana: focus: the foundations and future of law, religion and human rights in Africa

Type Journal Article - African Human Rights Law Journal
Title Law, religion and human rights in Botswana: focus: the foundations and future of law, religion and human rights in Africa
Author(s)
Volume 8
Issue 2
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2008
Page numbers 486-504
URL http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?pid=S1996-20962008000200012&script=sci_arttext&tlng=es
Abstract
Religion is universally recognised as a fundamental and inalienable right. It comprises a set of common beliefs and practices generally held by a group of people, codified as prayer, ritual, religious law as well as cultural and ancestral traditions and myths. In Botswana, religion plays a significant part in the lives of the majority of people. The constitutional framework within which religion is practised allows freedom of religion and a number of legal provisions exist to protect this freedom. This article appraises the current state of religious freedom in Botswana in the context of constitutionally guaranteed human rights. It concludes that the basic framework established by the Constitution creates a separation of religion and state and provides the enabling environment for the exercise of freedom of religion. Consequently, it has ensured the requisite social harmony not only for continuous development, but also for continuous enjoyment of freedom of religion.

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