Contrasting policies towards (mainly) Christian education in different contexts

Abstract

During the past 10 to 15 years there has been a renewed interest in the place of religion, religious education and religious schools in different parts of the world. This began in the USA and Europe with the development of private Christian schools. It was later followed by the resurgence of religious schools in the former parts of the Soviet Empire. Given that Christianity is still the world’s largest and most widespread religion, this paper explores different government approaches and policies towards Church–state relations in selected national contexts. Where necessary, reference will also be made to the place of education in other religions. While most examples are drawn from the industrialised countries of the west, and the position of Christianity in those countries, some references are made to certain developing countries. The paper also argues that because of policies of inclusion, equality and multiculturalism within western democracies, their governments are in danger of destroying their religious educational roots. The result is that those with a deep religious faith believe that they can only guarantee that their faith can be conveyed to their children through the pursuance of independent, private religious schools.