Understanding freedom of religion in Europe: from the Early Modern Age to the contemporary era

Abstract

The main purpose of this thesis is to examine the concept of freedom of religion in contemporary Europe, taking into account the historical roots of the concept during the Early Modern period. Through an analysis of the historical legal developments of human rights, this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the approach of the European Union in promoting human dignity and the respect of individual freedoms. Therefore, it suggests that the commitment of the European Union to secularism has played a key role in the shape of current policies and legal frameworks regarding freedom of religion. In particular, in the first chapter of the thesis, key historical developments of the Early Modern Age are explored. Specifically, the Reformation and the religious wars in Europe are presented. Additionally, it introduces the notion of religious tolerance, along with key prominent figures who influenced the philosophical thought of the modern era. Subsequently, the second chapter of the thesis explores the roots of the human rights canon during the revolutionary period. Specifically, it focuses on the significance of the French and American Revolutions and the relevance of the Code Napoleon in the drafts of modern European constitutions. Finally, the third chapter of the thesis aims to provide the contemporary legal framework of the European Union, with reference to the development of the notion of religious freedom in nowadays society and the role of religion and religious symbols in contemporary Europe.