The relationship between state and religion in Japan

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The European Union does not seek to alter or standardize national laws regarding Church and State, as stated in the Eleventh Declaration of the Amsterdam Contract, which affirms respect for the status of churches and religious communities under national laws. However, ongoing integration and harmonization processes influence the relationship between states and churches. Additionally, rising anti-religious sentiments, coupled with widespread indifference towards religious matters, contribute to this shift. Individuals who do not recognize the value of religious liberties are unlikely to defend them. This situation has both institutional and personal implications. Firstly, the relationship between states and religious organizations is evolving, marked by a gradual denationalization of State Churches and an increasing willingness to cooperate within frameworks of separation. Secondly, the scope and significance of religious freedom are being reconsidered, often taking a backseat to the basic rights of others or public interests. This trend in Europe prompts an examination of the relationship between the state and religious entities in a modern, diverse community with varying historical, cultural, and religious contexts. For instance, Japan, often referred to as a land of "eight million gods," offers a unique perspective on this dynamic.