The Romanian Patriarchate’s press service has addressed media claims suggesting the Orthodox Church holds a privileged, tax-exempt status while receiving substantial taxpayer-funded state aid. The Church asserts these claims are false, stating it complies with all tax obligations for religious organizations as stipulated by law. Additionally, for 2024, the Church has earmarked 73 million euros for social initiatives, excluding local parish and monastery charitable efforts. An increase in taxes would hinder the Church’s capacity to perform its social duties. The press service elaborates:
“In response to recent media reports incorrectly claiming the Romanian Orthodox Church avoids taxes or enjoys undue privileges, the Romanian Patriarchate wishes to clarify for the public:
The Romanian Orthodox Church, like all legally recognized religious groups in Romania, pays applicable taxes such as those on business-related properties and land, salary income taxes, and other fees as outlined by the Tax Code and regulations for religious entities.
Regarding the National Cathedral, all taxes associated with labor payments for its construction, as well as VAT on construction materials, have been paid, with funds returning to the Romanian state through standard fiscal processes.
Legal exemptions for buildings used as temples by recognized religious groups are common in democratic nations to support the public services these institutions provide.
The Romanian Orthodox Church ranks among the top social benefactors in Romania. In 2024, it invested nearly 73 million euros in social and charitable endeavors, bolstering 867 social entities and services that aided over 363,000 individuals through various material and humanitarian programs.
These efforts exclude numerous local parish and monastery activities that aid vulnerable populations, such as providing food, clothing, and assistance to impoverished families, the elderly, sick, or disabled. These initiatives reflect the Church’s ongoing social mission, despite not being centrally documented financially. The “Philanthropy” Association, the Romanian Patriarchate’s NGO, coordinates projects aiding the elderly, homeless, families in distress, maternity and family centers, social kitchens, palliative services, and social reintegration efforts, along with special programs for individuals with complex needs.
Thus, the Romanian Orthodox Church fulfills tax obligations like any other recognized Romanian religious entity while maintaining its status as the country’s leading philanthropist through annual socio-philanthropic projects funded by both the faithful’s contributions and dedicated social service funds. Increasing or introducing extra taxes would severely impact these social support programs, jeopardizing their beneficiaries.
“Simplistic claims about potential state revenue from taxing certain temples differently overlook the existing legal framework and the significant social function of recognized religious groups. The Romanian Orthodox Church reaffirms its dedication to responsibly and transparently enhancing Romanian society’s well-being, in line with legal principles and Christian values.”
Leave a Reply