Regulation of the Activities of Religious Organizations in the EU in the Context of Digitalization

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to study the possibilities of religious organizations in applying new means of influence to the religious and spiritual side of Western European society. Design/methodology/approach In this article, the authors examine some aspects of the use of cyberspace by religious organizations in the European Union, as well as conduct an analysis of the regulatory framework for the activities of religious organizations in the European Union in the context of digitalization. The article considers the theoretical and legal foundations of the digitalization institute. Findings As a secular international entity, the European Union regulates religious organizations through the national legislation of all twenty-seven states. But still, religious organizations do not receive state status in all EU states. The so-called “state religions” enjoy the support and assistance of the political authorities. By conferring the rights and obligations of religious organizations, the authorities also establish the right to use the media by religious organizations. The active use in its activities of the world Internet, all kinds of gadgets and other means of technological progress make it possible to attract the young generation, a generation of actively using and owning the world Internet, to their forums. Originality/value The authors formed legal constructions of the regulatory legal framework, as well as features in the use of cyberspace by religious organizations. Three main religious organizations were analyzed in the context of digitalization. Many scientific research articles are devoted to researching the impact of the Internet on how people use new technologies to meet their spiritual and religious needs. The consequences of this nascent but widespread phenomenon, which has a significant impact on providers of spiritual and religious services, are discussed.