Scientific discussion „The state neutrality principle: theoretical justification and practical challenges”

On 7-8 April, Faculty of Law of Vilnius University held a scientific discussion „The State Neutrality Principle: Theoretical Justification and Practical Challenges“. This discussion was organised together with partners from Jagellonian University in Cracow (Poland).

During first day Dr. Wojciech Ciszewski (Jagellonian University) presented the project on the state neutrality principle and theoretical justifications of this principle. Later, Dr. Donatas Murauskas (Vilnius University Faculty of Law) discussed issues related to practical application of the state neutrality principle, most of all, the approach taken by the European Court of Human Rights in Grand Chamber case Lautsi v. Italy and on implications of the state neutrality principle in cases of the Court on freedom of expression. On 8 April, Dr. Rafał Michalczak (Jagellonian University) discussed application of exemptions while applying the state neutrality principle and Ewa Matejkowska (Jagellonian University) presented the theoretical models of state and church relationship, including practical examples. All presentations touched the fundamental features of the state neutrality principle and were followed by rich discussions of the participants.