Twelfth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

This paper explores the shifting landscape of religious exemptions to vaccination in both secular and religious states. In particular, it focuses on the interplay between vaccination mandates during large-scale public health crises, such as a pandemic or epidemic, and the spectrum of protections conferred to religious institutions, communities, and individuals. The paper further hones in on the problem of how the rights of religious minorities are recognized and protected in these contexts. Methodologically, the study relies on case studies on countries representative of different faith traditions (Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism) and different approaches towards state-religion relationships (secular and religious). In addition to making a descriptive and analytical contribution, the research summarized in the paper suggests a need for greater comparative and integrative work in this area.