religion. The report explains in detail the connections between and the mutually-reinforcing nature of both rights. Significantly, the Special Rapporteur has recognized individuals and not religions or belief systems as right-holders per se. He has also reiterated the need for restrictions to meet international standards, specifically calling on states to repeal blasphemy laws. Laws relating to religion are used widely across the region to control and punish dissent. Regulations and restrictions on expression relating to religion takes many shapes. Typically, most states in the region have provisions on insulting religion, outraging religious feelings and sentiments. States also have provisions to prevent hate and incitement on the basis of religion. Legislation pertaining to hurting religious sentiments or blasphemy, as well as anti-hate speech legislation, poses a serious threat when applied to restrict freedom of legitimate expression and leaves persons accused of such acts largely vulnerable to attacks by non-state actors. Based on the observations, recommendations are made to government and state mechanisms, political parties, media, civil society, academia, religious bodies, the private sector and international mechanisms. The most pressing recommendations relate to the urgent need to repeal blasphemy laws, ensure that national jurisprudence meets international standards and the protection of individuals exercising their right or freedom of expression relating to religion or religious issues. States party to international mechanisms have been called upon to implement recommendations made by the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief in the report presented to the 31st Session of the UNHRC, as well as those provided for in the Rabat Action Plan. Finally, a call is made for the follow-up to review the implementation of Resolution 16/18 and the Rabat Action Plan by states to strengthen guarantees, address violations and include issues relating to gender and the Internet. Discourse on gender rights, security and free expression must also include a physical expression. It is recommended that the religious bodies realize that ensuring Freedom of Expression (FoE) for all is an integral part of Freedom of Religion (FoR), and that FoE or FoR cannot be selectively applied to specific groups, since that becomes an obstacle for the collective and secure democratic growth of a society. Governments need to end the culture of impunity. For a pluralistic Asia that embraces its vast diversity, FoE and FoR are two of the most valuable freedoms to ensure. 16