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REX/ZUMA
World News

Sweden testing Christian refugees on the Bible before granting asylum

by Tola Mbakwe

Asylum seekers who have converted to Christianity are required to answer technical questions on the faith such as the difference between the Orthodox and Protestant Churches.

Lawyers and church leaders have condemned the practice claiming the exam tests technical knowledge instead of the person's faith. They also said it's unfair the applicant's answers have weight in whether or not they are granted asylum.

Swedish news site, The Local, reported that Serpil Gungor, a lawyer, recommends his clients study the Bible carefully before their interview with the Swedish Migration Agency.

He told Swedish TV network, SVT: "I think it's terrible. I have repeatedly had to interrupt administrators who ask these questions because they are not relevant and are far too complicated."

According to Dagen newspaper, Hans-Erik Nordin, bishop of the Diocese of Strängnäs, said: "What knowledge does the Migration Agency have about religion and faith?"

While there is not a mention of the test on Sweden's Migration Agency website, it has defended its decision.

Carl Bexelius, Deputy Legal Director at the Swedish Migration Agency, told SVT: "It is a reasonable demand that the asylum applicant should show some knowledge of the Bible - this should come naturally, and isn't something you need to study."

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