RECOGNIZING RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES IN LAW.

Legal systems' provisions for recognizing religious groups as legal entities are important because they facilitate public interaction, shape views of the state, and, when faulty, hurt human dignity and restrict contributions to society. Rule of law should replace rule by law. The European Court of Human Rights' decisions demonstrateinternational consensus on the right to legal recognition based upon freedom of religion and freedom of association. Necessary features of religious association laws include eleven attributes such as neutrality and impartiality. Limitations are permissible only if they are imposed by law, they further critical social interests, and they are genuinely necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]