Roman Silantyev: "Russia should not be guided by the European Court of Human Rights"

Abstract

Answering the questions by the Editors of the journal, the official representative of the Russian Orthodox Church shared his views upon a number of issues. He believes the state must react through legislation to protect „religious feelings“ against intentional offences. He also believes that the freedom of expression should be limited, especially in cases of mass rallies and public events. He makes the point that Russia is not obliged to follow the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights. Silantiev calls to hardening of the 1997 Law of religious freedom, especially against those religious associations that tend to create conditions for extremism and terrorism, and that the state has a legitimate right to make a preference toward those religions that are the long established and reliable partners.