State and religion in post–Yugoslav states: is there a post–Yugoslav model of religion–state relationship?

Abstract

The paper delves into the legal framework governing state–religion relations in the states that emerged following the dissolution of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Initially, the author outlines potential models of state–religion relations within which the post–Yugoslav states can be categorized. Subsequently, a detailed examination is conducted on the constitutional and legal provisions, allowing for the deduction of the model characterizing the state’s relationship with religion in each of the six post–Yugoslav states. The concluding section of the paper contemplates the existence of a distinct post–Yugoslav model of state–religion relations. Identifying the precise model of state–religion relations, even within a single state, often poses a formidable challenge. However, it is somewhat more feasible to identify several models along a spectrum that a particular state is navigating. At the core of this spectrum lies the cooperation model, yet in all post–Yugoslav states, their respective models tend to incline towards a higher degree of positive identification between religion and the state.