The accused is presumed innocent. In trials for serious crimes, a panel of three judges presides. For lesser crimes, a single judge presides. There were no reports of political prisoners. The Constitution forbids such practices, and its provisions are respected in practice.
Violations are subject to effective legal sanctions.
An independent press, an effective judiciary, and a functioning democratic political system combine to ensure freedom of speech and of the press, including academic freedom. The law provides for these rights, and the authorities generally respect these provisions. The Constitution provides for freedom of religion, and the Government respects this right in practice. The Constitution and laws provide for these rights, and the Government respects them in practice. The Government cooperates with the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and other humanitarian organizations in assisting refugees.