Article 26 of CoI : Article 26: Freedom To Manage Religious Affairs

Explanation using Example

Imagine a religious community, the "Blue Sky Believers," who follow a unique set of spiritual practices. They decide to establish a meditation center where members can gather to meditate and engage in religious studies. This center would be an institution for religious purposes as per Article 26(1).

The Blue Sky Believers also have their own rituals and ceremonies which are central to their belief system. They have the right to manage these affairs without interference from the state, as long as they do not disrupt public order, as stated in Article 26(2).

Furthermore, the community decides to purchase a plot of land to build their meditation center, exercising their right under Article 26(3) to acquire property for their religious use.

Finally, they must administer the property and their finances in compliance with the state's secular laws, such as zoning regulations and financial reporting standards, as per Article 26(4).