Religious and spiritual beliefs are crucial components of cultures around the globe. It's important to understand your own religious beliefs and those of your host country to identify any opportunities or challenges that may arise while abroad. During your program, you will probably encounter people of different religious and non-religious backgrounds. Some countries have state-sponsored religions, in which religious doctrine weaves into legal and social codes, while other countries have separation of church and state. Even in countries with formal separation of church and state, religious tenets may still significantly influence cultural practices. Students should be aware that in some countries it is a crime to conduct religious activities, so you need to know the laws and conditions in the places you will be living and traveling.
Take a moment to research the role of religion in your host country and, if possible, the region/community you will live in, especially if you may be part of a religious minority while abroad. You might consider the following questions:
resources on religion abroad
Questions to Consider
What is the degree of religious freedom in your host country?
Is it safe to wear religious symbols and/or clothing?
If you plan to practice your religion abroad, are there places of worship in your community?
Is there a stigma attached to atheists or agnostics?
Are there any cultural practices that specifically address women or men?
What is the dominant religion in my host country?
Is there laws regarding region in my host country?
Will I be part of the religious majority or minority while abroad?
Tips
Familiarize yourself with the dominant religion and customs of your host country. Keep this information in mind when it comes to your dress, appearance, and behavior in public.
Have an open-mind about your host country.
Please let your program provider know about any dietary restrictions you may have ahead of time.
Use the local religion as an entry point to understanding the local culture.
Know the local laws in regard to religion and especially as this relates to anything that may appear to be proselytizing.
Demonstrate respect: wear appropriate attire, show proper respect to icons, etc. If you do not know what is appropriate, ask.
Research resources available in your host country to discover places of worship, along with organizations you can connect with.
Do some research to gain a general understanding of the predominant religion in your host country. This can give you a better understanding of different cultural and religious customs you may experience.
If possible, attend a religious gathering in your host country with your program or host family. This can help you gain a better sense of a differing religious perspective.
Visit the US State Department’s Traveler’s Checklist and review the country information pages for details on visa requirements and to learn about some local laws that may impact you
Adapted from GWU Office for Study Abroad - Religious & Non-Religious Students Abroad
Possible Religious Limitations Abroad
Many countries have laws that restrict religious expression. These may include restrictions on:
public or private prayer or other religious practices
wearing religious attire or symbols
preaching in a private or public setting
speaking to others about your beliefs
possessing religious images
criticizing or questioning the religious beliefs of others
visiting certain religious sites if you are female
possessing printed religious materials
distributing religious literature; and
participating in religious services or activities.
These laws may be applied more or less severely to foreign visitors, so be sure to research the local laws and customs of your destination country.
Other limitations you may encounter:
Access to communities of faith
Openness, flexibility, and respect for difference
Access to places of worship (regular and holidays)
Public vs. private sphere (what to share, when, where, etc.)
Majority/minority relations in the country
Being yourself abroad
Resources
In terms of finding access to a certain faith community, finding a place of worship, tips for practicing a specific religion abroad, and other faith specific questions, here is a list of resources organized by religious beliefs that can answer a wide array of questions you might have before studying abroad.
tips and possible limitations
General Resources for Practicing Your Religion Abroad
International Humanist and Ethical Union - IHEU is the world union of over a hundred Humanist, rationalist, secular, ethical culture, atheist and free-thought organizations in more than 40 countries.
Secular Web - List of organizations, including a limited number of international student organizations
Buddhism
Dharmanet - Listing of Buddhist groups and meditation groups by region
Kahal: Your Jewish Home Abroad - Resources on holiday celebrations, Shabbat dinners, and other opportunities while travelling to help you jump into the culture around you through the local Jewish community.
Delegation of Jewish American Students - Providing American Jewish students studying abroad the resources, tools, and connections they need to meaningfully engage with the Jewish community and their Jewish identity
World Union of Jewish Students: International umbrella organization comprised of 48 national independent Jewish Student Unions around the world
Kosher Restaurants: Directory of over 3,410 kosher restaurants around the world.
