However, many media outlets routinely report rumors and accusations as fact without benefit of hard evidence. A new criminal law adopted in April stipulates excessively severe penalties for libel and incitement of racial hatred, including imprisonment for up to three years for certain infractions. Freedom of worship is generally respected in practice. Freedom of assembly and association are protected by law and gatherings occur without government interference. More than 40 political parties are officially registered, although Communist, Nazi, and other organizations whose activities would contravene the constitution are banned.
Workers have the right to establish trade unions, strike, and engage in collective bargaining.
However, some private sector employees fear dismissal if they strike, as the government is limited in its ability to protect their rights. Although the government generally respects constitutional provisions for an independent judicial system, the judiciary is weak, prone to corruption, and not adequately trained. In April, a new criminal law entered into force which introduced the more frequent availability of alternative punishments, including community service, while at the same time imposing harsher penalties for certain crimes. There have been credible reports of police using excessive force against suspects, prisoners, and asylum seekers. Prison facilities remain overcrowded and conditions poor, with widespread incidents of tuberculosis.