Russian Court Bans Scientology Books As “Extremist”

A court in Moscow has upheld a lower court decision declaring books on Scientology to be extremist literature and banning publication or distribution of such books. This decision follows moves by other countries against Scientology as a criminal or fraudulent enterprise as well as testimony against the church by former high-ranking church members.

The court found that Scientology was aimed at forming isolated groups and fostering extremist activities.

I hold no brief for Scientology, but I am unsure why it has been singled out over other religions. As a civil libertarian, I find any censorship to be anathema. I have no problem with countries pursuing this or other religious organizations when they believe that they engage in fraud or other crimes. However, to ban publications from such a group raises serious free speech and associational concerns.

What do you think?

Source: RFERL