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Religious Equality

Since the Peace of Westphalia (1648), a principle of religious equality was established in Germany. Originally, this principle legitimised the equal treatment of the two Christian faiths. This principle became widespread during the 19th century and is viewed today as a general principle of religious equality.
Thus, any form of religious discrimination is prohibited (article 3 (3) GG). Being eligible to work in the public service is independent of the candidate’s religious denomination (article 33 (3) GG).
All religious communities must be treated according to the principle of equality. They are legally equal with regards to specific standards concerning religious instruction in state schools (article 7 (3) GG), the status of corporation under public law (article 140 GG and article 137 (5) WRV) or military and prison chaplaincies (article 140 GG and article 141 WRV).
There is no State control over religious affiliation. In other areas of partnership between the State and religious communities, the number of members of the religious organizations could justify distinctions between religions.

D 19 July 2012    AMichael Heinig

CNRS Unistra Dres Gsrl

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