Freedom of Religion/History/Country sources/Russia
What is the oldest written source in this country that mentions this right?
Russia
Russias history with the freedom of religion is somewhat complex. In its first constitution in 1906, Chapter II, Article 49 states, “Russian subjects shall enjoy liberty of conscience. The conditions under which this liberty is enjoyed shall be determined by law.” However, this does not necessarily mean there is a freedom to religion and to practice such religion. With that being said, the 1918 Declaration of the Rights of the Laboring and Exploited People does outline the freedom of religion as well as the separation of church and state, “Every citizen may profess or none at all. Any legal disabilities with the profession of any religion or none are abolished.”
Sources: “Northwestern SSO.” n.d. Prd-Nusso.it.northwestern.edu. Accessed June 21, 2024. https://heinonline-org.turing.library.northwestern.edu/HOL/Page?collection=cow&handle=hein.cow/stwar000 1&id=547&men_tab=srchresults.
“Northwestern SSO.” n.d. Prd-Nusso.it.northwestern.edu. Accessed June 21, 2024. https://heinonline-org.turing.library.northwestern.edu/HOL/Page?collection=journals&handle=hein.journals/in tcon5&id=426&men_tab=srchresults.
The Law on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Associations was ratified on September 26, 1997. This law grants religious freedom, equality, and prohibits religious discrimination.
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. “Russia: Information on the Law ‘on Freedom of Conscience and Religious Associations’ and Its Impact on Religious Minorities.” Refworld. Canada: Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, November 1997. Last modified November 1997. Accessed June 27, 2022. https://www.refworld.org/docid/3ae6ab968.html.