Secularism in Serbia: Civil Society’s Perceptions of the Growing Influence of The Serbian Orthodox Church and its Effects on Peace and Democracy

Abstract

Like many other post-socialist countries, Serbia experienced a religious resurgence following the wars in the 90s that resulted in a significant increase in church and state relationships during the early 2000s. This research project examines civil society actors’ perceptions of the increasing influence of the Serbian Orthodox Church and its potential threats to the country's peace efforts and developing democracy. Using semi-structured interviews with activists involved directly or indirectly with anti-fundamentalist movements, this research identifies the ways in which they perceive the SOC's power undermines democratic norms and curtails peace efforts. Further, it looks for a plausible alternative and explores how a secular state would contribute to Serbia’s post-conflict transformation.