The GYLA considers it inappropriate to make amendments in the Georgian Civil Code which are concerning the legal status of religious organizations in Georgia, GHN reports. The GYLA noted that the discussion on this subject was passed speedily.
"Such speedy decision excludes the possibility for participation of religious minorities in this discussion, " - the statement of GYLA said. At the same time the sever violation of the Bill's passing schedule was an absence of its reflection at the web page of the legislative body.
The Bill adds to the Civil Code the point 15091 which stipulates the rights for the religious organizations to be registered as juridical persons of the public law. The GYLA said that the status of a juridical person for the religious organizations is wrong decision. Despite such precedent is allowed. It is necessary to revise the questions concerning the legislation in this respect.
To be noted the status given to the religious organizations does not mean any privileges. The Georgian legislation allowed some facilities for the Georgian Orthodox Church exclusively, this does not touches other religious organizations. The above mentioned status does not decides any problems concerning property rights, taxes and other questions equal for all religions.
GYLA said that all religions are to be entitled for free legislative status, but in this respect the legislation is vague.
"From the one side it is not clear on what basis the NAPR National Agency for Public Register will determine the historic ties with Georgia of other religious organization. From the other side it is not clear what does it mean the ‘religious movement recognized as a legal religion in EU countries'. This record gives a possibility for many interpretations, and consequently the GYLA considers the Bill passed by Parliament as having insufficiencies and demanding further development, - the statement of GYLA reads.