Characteristics of financial position of religious organizations in Russia and Italy: constitutional legal aspect

Abstract

The article gives comparative analysis of approaches towards financing of religious organizations on the part of the state as one of the principles of a secular state. We give interpretation of the principle as of today. The authors attempt to research and define permissible limits of financial sovereignty of religious confessions. The article demonstrates considerable differences in the systems employed in Russia and in Italy. The authors suggest changing not only the mechanisms of providing financial support but also the procedure of rendering the accountancy.

Keywords: religion, Italy, Russia, secular state, religious associations, public funding, taxation