Models of state and church relations: comparative analysis and situation in lithuania

This master's thesis discusses the models of state-church relations in Europe, the United States and Lithuania. It answers the question what kind of state-church relationship model recognized within the theory of law Lithuania can be attributed to. The first part presents the concept and the criteria set out for the separation of state and church distinguished in the theory of law. This section also analyzes the typology of state-church relations presented in the theory of law and identifies the criteria by which the models of state-church relations can be identified. In the second, third and fourth parts the models of complete separation between state and church, established church and cooperation were analyzed respectively, through the analysis of legal regulation and case law of the states which implement each model. Each of the aforementioned parts began with a presentation of the theoretical definition of each model and setting out the legal basis for state-church relations in each country. Subsequent sections of each part analyze the position of states regarding religious education, the use of religious symbols and respect for freedom of expression, the establishment, administration and financing of religious organizations. The fifth part thoroughly reveals the legal basis of state-church relations in Lithuania, analyzes the position of the Constitutional Court in issues of religious education, establishment, administration and financing of religious organizations. Lastly, the model of state-church relations in Lithuania is determined by way of comparative analysis. In the end of this master’s thesis, taking into account the objectives set, the conclusions are presented