From June 30 to July 3, 2026, the 9th EUARE (European Academy of Religion) Conference, Religion and (In)Equalities, was held in Rome, Italy, bringing together approximately 1,050 participants. Representing Daugavpils University, Professor and Leading Researcher Dr. theol. Anita Stašulāne delivered a presentation entitled “(Neo)Pagans and (In)Equalities in Latvia and Estonia,” in which she examined the relationship between constitutional democracy and (neo)paganism. The protection of human rights in Estonia and Latvia became a prominent issue following the restoration of their independence. Subsequent developments have reflected a shift toward a new approach to religious policy, giving rise to constitutional challenges. Until recently, the legal framework governing relations between the state and religious communities was largely shaped by the historical needs of Christianity. Today, however, religious minorities, including (neo)pagan groups, increasingly challenge this model by drawing attention to the special legal status and privileges traditionally granted to Christianity. The legal status of (neo)pagan communities in Latvia and Estonia illustrates the tension between the constitutional principle of equality and the recognition of historical religious traditions, highlighting a key dilemma faced by contemporary constitutional democracies.

A. Stašulāne participated in the conference within the DU research project “Inter-disciplinarity and Diversity in the Contemporary Research in Humanities II” (No. 14-95/2026/11).

Additional information:
IHSS acting director, professor and leading researcher Anita Stašulāne
e-pasts: anita.stasulane@du.lv