The Absurd Case of the Family Federation in Japan
A victim is treated as a perpetrator, to the point that the Japanese government is requesting its dissolution as a religious organization.
Op-eds Global
Pakistan Raises Minimum Marriage Age for Christians to 18: Good—But
An old colonial law finally goes away, but what is needed is protection from forced conversion.
The Dark International of Anti-Cultism. 2. International Coordination
There is not a single “hidden hand” guiding the anti-cult movements throughout the world. But there are various levels of international coordination.
The Dark International of Anti-Cultism. 1. Six National Examples
The organized opposition to “cults” is different in different countries. Yet, common themes and features emerge.
French Abuse of “Brainwashing” Theories: The Trial of the Famille Missionnaire de Notre-Dame
A conservative Catholic congregation is accused of “abuse of weakness,” i.e., of “brainwashing.” Its Superior can go to jail.
Pakistan Government Both Denies and Admits Religious Liberty Crisis in the Country
The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the U.S. claim that there is no freedom of religion there. The Minister of Defense acknowledged religious minorities “are not safe.”
“If You Are a Cult, You Lose”: Japanese Courts’ Unwritten Rule Even Applies to Parties Merely “Connected” with a “Cult”
The judgement of July 1 against the Women Federation for World Peace simply confirms that court decisions in Japan are about politics, not law.
Lithuania and the Jehovah’s Witnesses: What Is the Matter?
Enhanced state recognition was refused to the religious organizations based on arguments that have already been rejected by the courts, including the European Court of Human Rights.
Two Ahmadis Shot Dead in Pakistan: A Needed Reflection on the Nature of Liberty
“Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty” is a motto often quoted and always misattributed. It is very appropriate for the present situation of Pakistan