Neo-Pagan Religion Gets Formal Recognition In Siberian Republic

The Moscow Times reported yesterday that after 18 years of trying, the neo-pagan faith Aar Aiyy has finally received formal recognition as a "religious organization" in the Siberian Russian Republic of Sakha. Russia's Law On Freedom of Conscience and Religious Associations sets out the procedure for obtaining recognition.  Under Russian law, religious organizations have greater rights than unrecognized religious groups.