<P> The North Korean constitution has clauses guaranteeing the freedoms of speech and assembly . In practice, other clauses take precedence, including the requirement that citizens follow a socialist way of life . Criticism of the government and its leaders is strictly curtailed and making such statements can be cause for arrest and consignment to one of North Korea's "re-education" camps . The government distributes all radio and television sets; citizens are forbidden to alter them to make it possible to receive broadcasts from other nations; doing so carries draconian penalties . </P> <P> There are numerous civic organizations but all of them appear to be operated by the government . All routinely praise the government and perpetuate the personality cults of the deceased Kim Jong - il and his father Kim Il - sung . Defectors indicate that the promotion of the cult of personality is one of the primary functions of almost all films, plays and books produced within the country . </P> <P> North Korea is officially an atheist state and the North Korean Constitution provides for "freedom of religious belief". However, government policies continue to interfere with the individual's ability to choose and to manifest their religious belief . The government continues to repress the religious activities of unauthorized religious groups . </P> <P> Reports from refugee, defector, missionary, and nongovernmental organizations report that individuals engaging in proselytizing, with ties to overseas evangelical groups operating in China, or who were repatriated from China and found to been in contact with foreigners or missionaries are likely to be arrested and harshly penalized . </P>

What are the people's role in north korea