Problems of Normative-Legal Regulation of Religious Security in Russia

The paper examines issues related to improving the legal framework that ensures the security of social relations in the sphere of religion. Interest in this topic stems from the fact that religion, as a complex phenomenon, can be both a benefit and a zone of risk. Under certain conditions, religious motivation can become a source of threats to the security of the individual, society, and the state. The author provides a definition of religious security and analyzes the system of legal sources regulating its provision. It is shown that despite a considerable number of legal norms that in one way or another affect various aspects of religious security, the current legislation contains no legal definition of it and does not assign it a specific place within the structure of national security. Religious security is likewise not designated at the constitutional level, which creates difficulties for empowering the constituent entities of the Russian Federation with lawmaking authority in this area, although regional practice of adopting relevant laws is beginning to emerge. The paper considers options for removing the legal uncertainty regarding religious security, such as adopting a special law on religious security, adjusting the system of strategic planning acts, and making amendments to the Constitution of the Russian Federation.