Secularism guarantees freedom of conscience. From this comes the freedom to manifest one's beliefs or convictions within the limits of respect for public order. Secularism implies the neutrality of the State and asserts the equality of all before the law, regardless of religion or belief.
Secularism guarantees believers and non-believers the same right to free expression of their beliefs or convictions. It guarantees the right to have or not to have a religion, to change it or to cease having one. It guarantees freedom of worship and freedom of religion, but also freedom from religion: no one can be forced to respect religious dogmas or prescriptions.
Secularism implies the separation of the State from religious organizations. The political order is founded solely on the sovereignty of the people, of citizens, and the State - which neither recognizes nor salutes any religion - does not regulate the internal workings of religious organizations. This separation implies the neutrality of the State, local authorities and public services, but not of their users. In this way, the secular Republic ensures that all citizens have equal access to the administration and public services, whatever their convictions or beliefs.
Secularism is not one opinion among others, but the freedom to have one. It is not a belief, but the principle that authorizes them all, subject to respect for public order.
Understanding secularism
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Charter of secularity in public services
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