The constitution grants freedom to practice, worship, and assemble for religious services but not to use this freedom to “commit evil and licentious acts” or “do what is contrary to the law and peace of the land.”
Registration of religious groups is not required by law. However, a church may choose to register in order to be eligible for specific benefits such as recognition of clergy as marriage officers and tax exemption.
There were no reports of significant societal actions affecting religious freedom.
During periodic visits, officials from the U.S. embassy in Fiji discussed religious freedom with representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Tonga National Council of Churches. Embassy officials discussed the International Religious Freedom Report and the need to protect religious freedom with Tongan contacts.