UWED Students Explore Freedom of Conscience and Interreligious Relations

As part of the “Society and Religion” course, an off-campus practical session was organized for International Relations students at the University of World Economy and Diplomacy (UWED) at the Roman Catholic Parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Tashkent.

During the session, students learned about the history of the Catholic community in Uzbekistan, the distinctive features of its activities, and the role of religious organizations in contemporary society. Particular attention was paid to the history of the church’s construction, which began in 1912, as well as the resumption of the Catholic parish’s activities following Uzbekistan’s independence. Students also explored the importance of preserving the country’s religious and cultural heritage.

A separate discussion focused on the constitutional and legal foundations of freedom of conscience in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Students examined constitutional provisions guaranteeing everyone’s right to profess any religion or none, as well as the principles of a secular state, the separation of religious organizations from the state, and their equality before the law.

The practical session also addressed the interaction between religious communities and society, highlighting the importance of interreligious dialogue and mutual respect in maintaining social stability and harmony.

The primary objective of the session was to deepen students’ theoretical understanding of the relationship between society, religion, and the state through a specific historical example. The visit contributed to the development of analytical skills, encouraged an objective approach to studying religion as a social and sociopolitical phenomenon, and enhanced students’ understanding of the role of religion in international relations.

Such practical sessions enable future international relations professionals to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world social processes, broaden their perspectives, and develop the competencies required for effective professional engagement in multicultural and multireligious environments.