Religion and Politics in Post-Communist Romania

Abstract

Abstract Religious groups have emerged as powerful political actors in post‐communist Eastern Europe, especially in predominantly Christian Orthodox countries like Romania. The book discusses the interplay between religion and politics in six major areas of public affairs—nationalism and ethnic identity; confronting the communist past; restitution of Greek Catholic property abusively confiscated by communist authorities; elections and membership in political parties; religious instruction in public schools at pre‐university level; and sexuality, including abortion and prostitution. In each area, it discusses the negotiations between religious, political actors and civil society representatives; the dominance of the Orthodox Church relative to other religious groups; and the influence of denominations on legislation and governmental policy. While the Orthodox Church has asked for recognition as state, national church, religious minorities demanded equality, and the civil society asked for separation of church and state, Romanian post‐communist authorities have maintained a tight grip on religious affairs.