The constitution guarantees freedom of religion. In June, following a pledge made upon taking office in late 2013 to make the state more secular, the ruling coalition introduced a modified national day schedule prioritizing secular over religious elements. The government also continued the suspension of discussions with the Muslim community about establishing a convention following a similar pledge to terminate or renegotiate existing conventions with other religious groups. Muslim community leaders stated they fulfilled the current legal requirements for a convention.
There were no reports of significant societal actions affecting religious freedom.
The U.S. Ambassador as well as embassy officers met with high-ranking religious leaders to discuss matters related to religious freedom, notably reactions to government plans for a more secular state. The Ambassador hosted interfaith iftar and seder dinners in April and July, respectively, that focused on bringing together leading representatives of the various religious communities and government officials.