1. ABOUT THE REPORT The rights to freedom of expression and religion are often portrayed as being in opposition with each other. This notion is particularly strong in Asia, where multiple religions and cultures coexist. Drawing from global discourse around laws and human rights on the intersection between the right to freedom of expression and the right to freedom of religion, this report reflects on ground realities in Asia. Based on the regional trends recorded from experiences in nine states in Asia – Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Vietnam - recommendations are made to ensure the better protection of these rights. This is a joint initiative by Bytes for All Pakistan and the Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development. Discussions and debates at the Jakarta Regional Consultation on Expression, Opinion and Religious Freedoms have helped guide this report. 7