A person's fundamental right to freely choose, practice, and also change their religion or worldview, or to belong to no religion.
example
Die Religionsfreiheit ist ein zentraler Bestandteil vieler Verfassungen.
Freedom of religion is a central component of many constitutions.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'die Religion' (religion) and 'die Freiheit' (freedom), connected with an 's.' It literally describes the freedom to practice one's religion.
EXAMPLE
Die Religionsfreiheit ist ein im Grundgesetz verankertes Recht.
Freedom of religion is a right anchored in the Basic Law.
Word family of fundamental rights
The ending '-freiheit' (-freedom) forms many other fundamental rights. If you recognize this structure, you will also understand words like 'Meinungsfreiheit' (freedom of opinion) or 'Pressefreiheit' (freedom of the press) more easily.
EXAMPLE
Neben der Religionsfreiheit ist auch die Meinungsfreiheit ein hohes Gut in einer Demokratie.
Alongside freedom of religion, freedom of opinion is also a highly valued good in a democracy.
Typical verbs
As a legal term, 'Religionsfreiheit' (freedom of religion) is often used with certain verbs. Typical phrases are 'die Religionsfreiheit garantieren' (to guarantee freedom of religion), 'schützen' (to protect), or also 'einschränken' (to restrict).
EXAMPLE
Der Staat muss die Religionsfreiheit seiner Bürger garantieren.
The state must guarantee its citizens' freedom of religion.