Religion and Politics in Post-Communist Romania

This insightful study investigates the complex interplay of religion and state in Romania's post-communist era, focusing on the Orthodox Church's influence on democracy.

In Religion and Politics in Post-Communist Romania, the authors Lavinia Stan and Lucian Turcescu explore the intricate dynamics between religion and state in Romania following the fall of communism. This period has seen the Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Greek Catholic churches actively engaging in political discourse, attempting to shape the democratic landscape according to their beliefs. The book highlights how these religious institutions have gained a significant level of public trust, often surpassing that of elected officials, revealing the deep-seated disillusionment with the political system that has emerged in the region.

The authors delve into the Romanian Orthodox Church's efforts to establish itself as the national Church, seeking to influence legislation on social issues such as homosexuality and abortion. They argue that the post-communist political elite relies on the Church to support cultural policies and manage the demands of various minority groups, particularly the Hungarian community. This relationship underscores the complexities of church-state interactions in a transitioning democracy, where historical legacies and contemporary politics intertwine.

By examining confidential archives from the Securitate and other sources, Religion and Politics in Post-Communist Romania offers a comprehensive analysis of key themes, including electoral politics, nationalism, and religious education. The authors present a nuanced view of how religious actors shape political discourse and social life in Romania, moving beyond simplistic interpretations of nationalism to understand the broader implications of religion in the public sphere.