Legal framework on freedom of religion and actual application
The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe consists of two archipelagos around two main islands in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa.
As Africa’s second-smallest country after the Seychelles, São Tomé and Príncipe remains one of the continent’s most stable democracies. The Portuguese legacy is visible in its culture and customs, which combine African and European influences.
Under Article 8 of the Constitution, São Tome and Príncipe is a secular state. The state is separate “with respect to all religious institutions”. All citizens are equal before the law, regardless of their religious beliefs. Religious freedom is an “inviolable” right (Article 27, 1). Religious groups are “free in worship, in education and in their organization” (Article 27, 4). No one may be persecuted on account of his or her religion (Article 27, 2). However, Article 19 (1) stipulates that restrictions on religious freedom are permissible insofar as they are “foreseen in the Constitution and suspended during the validity of a state of siege or state of emergency declared in the terms of the Constitution and of the law.” In practice, the government respects religious freedom.
Under Article 31 (2) of the Constitution, “The State may not reserve for itself the right to plan education and culture according to any philosophical, political, ideological or religious policies.” There are no indications that education is provided in a way that discriminates on religious grounds.
Religious groups must register with the government. Religious education is available solely in private schools and is not mandatory.
São Tomé and Príncipe is a signatory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Incidents and developments
In April 2022, the government issued a broadcast licence to Radio Jubilar. The station includes a centre for training local journalists and serves as a local “social, cultural and religious” point of reference.
No incidents or additional developments were reported.
Prospects for freedom of religion
The status of religious freedom in São Tomé and Príncipe is generally positive, and there is no reason to believe that the country’s basic respect for this fundamental right will alter in the foreseeable future.
Sao Tome and Principe