2002/11/27 - Pl
2002/11/27 - PL. ÚS 6/02: RELIGIOUS FREEDOM HEADNOTES The Czech Republic is founded on the principle of a secular state. Under Art. 2 para. 1 of the Charter, the state is founded on democratic values and “may not be bound either by an exclusive ideology or by a particular religious faith.” Thus, it is Republic must accept and tolerate religious pluralism, meaning that, above all, it must not discriminate against, or, on the contrary, give unjustified advantage to, any particular religious faith. It also follows from the cited article that the state must be separate from specific religions. The principle of religious pluralism and tolerance is also implemented in Art. 15 para. 1 and in Art. 16 of the Charter. Art. 15 para. 1 of the Charter provides that freedom of thought, conscience and religious faith is guaranteed, and that everyone has the right to change his religion or faith or to be non-denominational. Under Art. 16 of the Charter, everyone has the right to freely manifest his religion or faith, either alone or in community with others, in private or in public, through worship, teaching, practice or observance (para. 1). Churches and religious societies govern their own affairs; in particular they establish their own governing bodies, ordain their clergy, and found religious orders and other church institutions independently of state authorities (para. 2). The exercise of these rights may be limited by law, in the case of a measure which is necessary in a democratic society for the protection of public safety and order, health and morals, or the rights and freedoms of others (para.
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