Overview:

• Nine traditional religious groups are given existential recognition in the country based on a longevity quota; a myriad of benefits exist for members and leaders of these recognised traditional groups; the vertical recognition system is oriented on the concept of traditional religions and untraditional ones; there are currently no outlined procedures for becoming a traditional religion except for passing the 300 year longevity quota.

• Recognition and registration are differentiated however their powers abused; the former is only truly bestowed to the traditional religions while the former is offered to all non-traditional religions for them to gain some semblance of state recognition; registration is offered to organisations that are part of one of the traditional religions and discrimination exists within the system in favour of traditional groups.

• Recognition is being abused to discriminate against NRMs.

• Religious communities, religious associations, and religious centres form three legal levels for religious activity in Lithuania; groups that attain any of these recognition levels are still called non-traditional religions; the multi-step process of registration requires submitting documents to the MOJ as well as the State Enterprise Center of Registers.

• Parliament’s involvement in an applicant’s recognition process highlights its politicisation.

Positive elements:

• Nil.

Recommendations:

• Complete dismantlement of the present restrictive recognition system.