The government closely monitors all religious groups since it has been these groups that have been politically active in the past. Only the individuals who belong to registered religious groups enjoy religious freedom.
Religious publications are subject to censorship.
It is illegal to print or import Bibles translated into indigenous languages. It is extremely difficult to gain permission to build new churches. Foreign religious workers are not issued long-term visas. Permanent foreign missionary establishments have not been allowed since these institutions were nationalized in 1964-65. The SPDC and the DKBA are both involved in a brutal campaign to pacify the Karen and Karen people as well as other ethnic minorities.