President of Belarus Aleksandr Lukashenko has signed the Law On Amendments to Laws Regarding the Activities of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus, sb.by reports citing the Belarusian leader’s press service
The law assigns overall supervision of the Commissioner for Religious and Ethnic Affairs to the Administration of the President of Belarus. The Commissioner is appointed by the President and reports directly to him.
This change in status will give the Commissioner’s office greater ability to quickly co-ordinate and address necessary issues with other state bodies. The Belarus President Administration will ensure proper co-ordination in this regard, including the implementation of major interfaith projects and the promotion of legislative initiatives.
Interactions with foreign religious centres representing major global faiths often involve a broad range of issues, including those related to foreign policy and security. Having the Commissioner’s office directly subordinate to the Head of State will simplify and make interactions in these areas more effective.
The provisions in the law are intended to support the continued preservation and promotion of interfaith and interethnic peace and harmony.
Additionally, a decree has been signed to approve the regulations governing the Commissioner for Religious and Ethnic Affairs, outlining his primary duties, functions, and authorities.
