Freedom of religion means little if it protects conversion into a faith but not conversion out of it. Apostasy remains legally or socially dangerous in several countries.

The death penalty for abandoning Islam is not merely an internet myth. Classical jurisprudence, modern legislation and public opinion make the subject impossible to ignore.

Words can still become crimes. In several countries, insulting religion, sacred figures or religious beliefs can lead to prosecution, imprisonment or worse.

An accusation can destroy a life before a court ever decides the facts. Blasphemy laws have repeatedly been used against minorities, dissenters and personal rivals.

Leaving belief behind can mean far more than changing your opinion. Some atheists and ex-Muslims face family rejection, threats, censorship or prosecution.

What you drink, wear, believe, say or do in private can become a matter for the state when religious morality becomes criminal law.

Amputation, flogging and other corporal penalties belong to classical Islamic criminal jurisprudence and remain legally relevant in a limited number of modern states.

Apostasy, blasphemy and certain consensual sexual acts can still carry extreme penalties under some contemporary legal systems.