preferences and grants on a competitive basis to relevant organizations, including religious organizations. Separate regulatory issues cover the restoration of religious sites of historical and culture significance. Over the past few years in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation the institution of regimental priests has been revived and set forth. Particular attention in Russia is paid to prison ministering, because the mission of the priest in this case is particularly relevant, and people who are serving criminal sanctions are in particular need of moral help and support. Significant efforts are made by the state to protect the believers, practising any religion. The most pressing issue today apart from the inter-religious relations, although these are extremely important in a multi-ethnic and multi-confessional country like Russia, is the relationship between the believing part of society and an aggressive-minded citizens who share secular ideology. This problem is not unique for Russia, but for all European countries: vandalism, caricatures of religious symbols, attacks, threats, offensive films and videos, actions that offend believers and their symbols. In Russia, it was decided to establish criminal and administrative liability for persons who insult the religious beliefs of citizens. Since July 1, 2013 came into force the relevant "Law on protection of religious feelings of believers". Its adoption was to a great extent initiated by public entities – religious organizations and public associations, fully supported by the state, and has attracted considerable public attention. The second important mechanism for protection of the rights of believers, including those of religious minorities, is the creation of dialogue platforms and advisory bodies. Since 1994, Russia has a Commission on Religious Associations under the Government of the Russian Federation. The Commission is a coordinating body, looking into issues arising in relations between the state and religious associations. In