Prefer Jewish News on Google
Portugal would win Euro 2016, if it were based on religious freedom
Researches concluded that of the 24 countries for the prize in France, Portugal gives its religious communities most freedom
Portugal would win the European Championships 2016 – if it were based on religious freedom rather than football.
That is the conclusion of researchers who assessed all 24 countries fighting for the Euro 2016 football championships being held in France, starting on Friday.
England would not get passed the last 16, according to data from the Pew Global Religious Futures Project, but the Czech Republic and Ireland would both make it to the semi-finals, while hosts France would be knocked out at the Group stages.
The study on religious freedom in predominantly-Christian Europe, where only one in five say God is an important part of their lives, measured social hostility, government restrictions and legal protections. It also considered minorities, conversions and education.
Researchers found that Russia fared worst of the 24 competing nations, followed by Turkey, one of only two Muslim states in the tournament. The other, Albania, was second, and would therefore lose to Portugal in the final.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
