Some critics claim that this provision interferes with the commercial and editorial independence of the media. The Constitution provides that universities and other institutions of higher education shall be autonomous and that scientific and artistic endeavor shall be free. Academic freedom is rigorously respected. The Constitution guarantees the right of peaceful assembly and participation in public meetings. Permits for meetings are routinely granted.
Persons have the right to associate freely.
These rights may be restricted only in circumstances involving national security, public safety, or for protection against infectious diseases, and then only by act of the State Assembly. Career military and police personnel are not allowed to be members of political parties. The Constitution guarantees the unfettered profession of religious and other beliefs in private and in public. No person may be compelled to admit his religious or other beliefs. There is no state religion, although the appropriate role, if any, for religious instruction in the schools is still the subject of political debate.