The role of religion in European constitutional law is increasingly shaped by EU laws, particularly regarding religious freedom, which can create tensions between progressive advocates and traditionalists. The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) influences member states’ regulations, as seen in the controversial headscarf ban for Muslim girls in Austria aimed at promoting…
The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) is navigating the complex interplay between workplace discrimination laws and religious freedoms, particularly evident in cases like Egenberger. While the CJEU has historically championed non-discrimination, its approach to religious issues is more restrained, allowing Member States significant leeway in regulating religious practices to manage Europe’s diverse…
The EU Court of Justice’s restrictive interpretation of religious freedom is detrimental to Muslim minorities, reflecting nationalist and Christian-centric ideologies while prioritizing women’s rights and anti-discrimination. This perspective fails to acknowledge the diverse church-state relations in EU member states, leading to a narrowing of religious practices and increased restrictions on Muslim communities, such as bans…
The Danish Press Council criticized “Ekstra Bladet” for publishing false information against Jehovah’s Witnesses and not correcting it. A Danish investigation affirmed that Jehovah’s Witnesses adhere to local laws, finding after a thorough review no evidence of wrongdoing related to allegations of mishandling domestic violence and child abuse cases. The Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs found…
Discrimination against Muslims in France has increased, with a report showing that one in three Muslims experienced such discrimination. A 2024 survey noted a rise in religious discrimination from 5% in 2016 to 7% over the past five years, predominantly affecting those of Muslim heritage, particularly women at 38%, who often face employment exclusions related…
On 17 October 2025, the Portuguese parliament approved a bill from the far-right Chega party banning face coverings for “gender or religious motives” in public spaces, pending presidential approval. The law aims to prohibit the niqāb and burqa, imposing fines and prison sentences for enforcement against wearers. This legislation, while symbolic due to the small…
A sign in a bookstore in Flensburg, Germany, stating “Jews are banned from entering here!” has sparked international outrage and accusations of antisemitism. The message, claimed to be posted out of anger over the Gaza war, drew widespread condemnation. This incident reflects rising antisemitism in Germany amid increasing anti-Israel protests. See the article here
The European Court of Human Rights ruled that Lithuania violated the religious freedom of a Jehovah’s Witness minister by denying him access to civilian service as an alternative to mandatory military service due to his conscientious objection. This ruling marks Lithuania’s second loss in a similar case. The European Court emphasized the importance of freedom…
AFN is saddened by the horrific attack on the Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester today thoroughly condemns it and the motivations behind this event. Our thoughts are with the victims and the community and wish them strength to get through this difficult period. Hate crime and violence against any religion or group is despicable yet…
AFN members attended a conference on religious freedom relating to a small minority new religion in the UK. AFN’s Director had done a study of discrimination against the group in Sweden. The movement’s account of the conference is detailed here:
