The 1991 constitution of Romania guarantees freedom of religious belief and states that "freedom of conscience is guaranteed; it must be expressed in a spirit of tolerance and mutual respect." Religious sects are free and are to be organized in accordance with their statutes under the conditions of the law. Religious feuding is against the law. In the state schools, religious education is organized and guaranteed by law.
The 1997 US State Department Report on Religious Freedom explains that under a 1948 law, the government recognizes 15 religions whose clergy may receive financial support. The State Secretariat for Religious Affairs has registered 385 other faiths, organizations and foundations as religious associations. Under a 1924 law these organizations have juridical status and are eligible for tax-exempt status, but they are not recognized as religions and may not found churches or perform sacraments. Official registration is a long, drawn-out, bureaucratic process.
According to 1996 and 1997 State Department reports, several Protestant denominations, including Jehovah’s Witnesses, have made credible reports that low-level government officials impede their efforts to worship and proselytize. Foreign missionaries have difficulty obtaining long-term visas. An International Conference of Jehovah’s Witnesses was banned in 1996 following public attacks by the Romanian Orthodox Church.
2003 US State Department International Religious Freedom Report on Romania
Oslo Coalition on Freedom of Religion or Belief Report on Romania
International Christian Concern Report on Romania
Search Amazon.com for books on religious freedom in Romania