The Importance Of The Right To Freedom Of Religion

709 Words3 Pages

Although Christianity is still the biggest religion in Europe – about 75% of religious people in Europe are Christians – the rise of immigrants brought new religions into the European territory. In 2010, 5,9% of the European population consisted of Muslims and Jews. Hindus, Buddhist and Folk religions each cover approximately 1% of the population.

These numbers show that there are several religious minorities in Europe. Over the past 25 years, they have been faced with a wave of discrimination and racism based on their religion. This heinous behavior poses a constraint to people belonging to a religious minority to enjoy their fundamental right to freedom of religion and belief. To have a better understanding of the need for protection against these conducts, …show more content…

As a consequence, limitations to the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as offered by article 10 of the Charter are only legitimate if they respect article 9(2) of the Convention, which reads as follows:

Freedom to manifest one's religion or beliefs shall be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society in the interests of public safety, for the protection of public order, health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.

In other words; restrictions to the right to freedom of religion and belief have to be laid down by law, proportionate, necessary and respond to the objectives of general interest recognized by the Union or the requirements of protecting the rights and freedoms of others. Limitations for other reasons, such as national security for example, are not permitted. The limitations must also be strictly interpreted and in accordance with international standards.

2. hostilities against religious

Open Document