Substituting the word 'sectarian organisation' for 'sect' has done nothing to change the situation. But whether Belgium and France choose to speak of sectarian organisations or sects is beside the point. The fact is that these two countries decided to hunt them down. Even the Catholic church was not left out of the witchhunt. In several of its decisions, the European Court has given a wide interpretation of the need to protect pluralism of ideas in a democratic society.
Freedom of expression is at the heart of democratic society.
The same can be said for religious pluralism which forms part of the foundations of a democratic so-ciety. Freedom of worship and conscience is central to the believer's identity and his conception of life, but also equally important for atheists, agnostics, skeptics or those who are indifferent. Conclusions Proposals were made to open up talks. The Swiss delegation came out in favour of dialogue between the authorities and religious organisations and the appointment of an ombudsman to deal with religious issues. Without Frontiers also made suggestions in this direction but was greeted with a blunt refusal by the Interministerial Mission.