Law and Religion

Law and Religion

In our pluralistic world, a variety of oft-conflicting perspectives informs our understanding of moral and political ideas of justice. Additionally, legal cases increasingly span across borders and involve participants with no shared tradition, creating tensions that reflect fundamental moral conflicts. These resources explore how religion grounds, shapes, and conflicts with our legal systems.

Our Experts

Michael Kessler

Managing Director
Department of Government and Law Center

Law and Religion A-Z Subtopics

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Abortion Subtopic

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Governance Subtopic

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International Criminal Court Subtopic

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Blog Posts

Stairs leading up to the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, China

March 16, 2020

Regulating Religion in China

Why is China re-intensifying the regulation of religious groups? How do Chinese policies on religion fit into larger state objectives? Should the U.S. government place greater pressure on China to advance religious freedom?

Indian flag flies on top of the Red Fort in Delhi, India

March 9, 2020

Religion and Citizenship in India

What does the Citizenship Amendment Act mean for the future of Indian democracy? Why is Hindu nationalism on the rise in India now? What are the implications of Hindutva for other states in South Asia, such as Bangladesh and Pakistan?

February 13, 2020

Politics of School Prayer

What is the significance of the recent guidelines on school prayer? Has religious freedom become a polarized (and polarizing) issue? If so, is it possible to (re)create a bipartisan coalition on religious freedom?

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Events

Jun
10

2020

Religious Responsibilities in Confronting Police Brutality

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. EDT Online

May
13

2020

Publications

Article August 8, 2018

Borders and Duties to the Displaced: Ethical Perspectives on the Refugee Protection System

This essay by Fr. David Hollenbach, S.J., proposes multiple ethical considerations and frameworks to be applied in addressing the global crises that necessitate refugee protection.