Orthodox Religion Teaching in a Public School in the Greek Republic. Law and Education Perspective: Law and education perspective

Abstract

Teaching Oorthodox religion in schools in the Hellenic Republic is compulsory and has firm legal foundations as well as original educational solutions within the European Union. The subject of this analysis are: constitutional norms, laws, regulations and relevant literature. The article presents the religious demographics, denominantional relations in the Hellenic Republic, constitutional foundations of religious education, freedom of conscience and religion, the legal status of teachers, the structure of education, and curriculum. Religious education includes both catechetical and religious studies elements, with emphasis on the latter. The Greek legal system protects religious and ethical dialogue, which guarantees pupils the right to exercise freedom and conscience. This is expressed in the possibility for pupils to obtain exemption from compulsory participation in religion classes. Although the current multiculturalism of Greek society and globalization mean that the denominational nature of religious education is met with criticism, the link between teaching the Orthodox religion and education remains strong and is generally accepted by Greek society.