ИСТИНА

The article focuses on the analysis of the current situation with the freedom of conscience and the freedom of religion – via the state support of traditional religions, on the one hand, and discriminatory practices in relation to non-traditional religions, on the other hand. The problem is analyzed in the context of the relationship between the authorities and religious institutions on the basis of the norms of international human rights law and Russian law in effect. Both European and Russian experiences are referred to when reviewing the legal and regulatory aspects of the freedom of religion. Critical approach is adopted to recently enacted legislation which establishes a more severe liability for actions preventing persons from the freedom of religion and penalizes the insult of the believers. An attempt is made to review certain key precedents how the new laws are being followed in practice, building on how these laws fit into the international human rights law. Conclusions are drawn about the need to follow the principle of neutrality of the state in the relationship with the religious institutions. Recommendations are given on the necessity to build the multi-confessional state policy which should be built on the basis of international human rights law relating to the freedom of religion and regulating equal access and equal opportunities for the representatives of all religious movements.