Cameroon - The law shall ensure the right of every person to a fair hearing before the courts; - every accused person is presumed innocent until found guilty during a hearing conducted in strict compliance with the rights of defence; - every person has a right to life, to physical and moral integrity and to humane treatment in all circumstances. Under no circumstances shall any person be subjected to torture, to cruel, inhumane or degrading treatment; - no person shall be harassed on grounds of his origin, religious, philosophical or political opinions or beliefs, subject to respect for public policy; - the State shall be secular. The neutrality and independence of the State in respect of all religions shall be guaranteed; - freedom of religion and worship shall be guaranteed; - the freedom of communication, of expression, of the press, of assembly, of association, and of trade unionism, as well as the right to strike shall be guaranteed under the conditions fixed by law; - the Nation shall protect and promote the family which is the natural foundation of human society. It shall protect women, the young, the elderly and the disabled; - the State shall guarantee the child's right to education. Primary education shall be compulsory. The organization and supervision of education at all levels shall be the bounden duty of the State; - ownership shall mean the right guaranteed to every person by law to use, enjoy and dispose of property. No person shall be deprived thereof, save for public purposes and subject to the payment of compensation under conditions determined by law; - the right of ownership may not be exercised in violation of the public interest or in such a way as to be http://confinder.richmond.edu/Cameroon.htm (3 of 71)4/12/2005 10:53:07 AM