World Evangelical Alliance Challenges Rwanda's Religious Regulation Laws

The World Evangelical Alliance has formally determined that current religious regulations in Rwanda do not align with international human rights standards. In a recent submission to the Universal Periodic Review, the organization urged the Rwandan government to reconsider its 2018 law on faith-based organizations. This legislation, along with subsequent 2025 amendments, has created significant operational hurdles for religious groups across the country. The 2018 law, titled Determining the Organisation and Functioning of Faith-based Organisations, introduced a series of strict requirements for religious institutions. Among these mandates is a requirement for churches to register with the state and for their leaders to possess specific theological degrees. These rules apply to a wide range of denominations and places of worship operating within the nation. Following the conclusion of a government-mandated grace period, the Rwanda Governance Board began a comprehensive inspection process. Working alongside local authorities, the board examined more than 13,000 places of worship throughout the country. This initiative resulted in the closure of approximately 7,700 churches that were found to be non-compliant with the new regulatory framework. The World Evangelical Alliance report highlights a disparity between the treatment of faith-based organizations and other non-governmental organizations. While secular groups face less stringent requirements, religious entities must meet higher standards regarding property ownership and the educational qualifications of their representatives. Critics argue that these conditions place an unfair burden on religious communities compared to other civil society actors. Beyond the registration process, the report expresses concern over government interference in the selection of religious leaders. Such oversight has raised questions about the autonomy of religious institutions and their ability to manage internal affairs without state intervention. The World Evangelical Alliance suggests that these policies may infringe upon the fundamental right to freedom of religion or belief. Data from the Open Doors World Watch List indicates that the environment for religious practice in Rwanda has become increasingly difficult. The country's persecution score for Christians has risen from 42 points in 2021 to 58 points in 2025. This shift reflects growing pressure on the church sphere and a decline in the perceived freedom of religious expression. Government officials have maintained that the regulations are necessary to ensure the proper functioning and accountability of religious groups. The Rwanda Governance Board has emphasized that the inspections were conducted to uphold legal standards and protect the public interest. Supporters of the policy argue that it helps prevent the proliferation of unregulated or potentially harmful religious activities. However, international observers continue to monitor the situation closely as the impact of these closures persists. The debate centers on the balance between a state's right to regulate public institutions and the protection of religious freedom. Many faith leaders are calling for a more collaborative approach that respects both national laws and international human rights commitments. As the discussion continues, the future of these regulations remains a point of contention between the government and various religious organizations. The World Evangelical Alliance has expressed hope that the government will engage in dialogue to address these concerns. Whether the current laws will be amended to better accommodate religious groups remains to be seen in the coming months. The situation in Rwanda serves as a case study for how nations navigate the intersection of state authority and religious practice. As global standards for human rights evolve, the pressure on governments to justify such restrictive measures is likely to increase. The outcome of this ongoing review could set a significant precedent for religious freedom in the region.