EN
Sects and what is called “new religion” are today a fairly widespread phenomenon, and one to which young people are particularly vulnerable. Their negative impact is manifested, inter alia, by the breaking down of an individual’s personality, instilling a decreased sense of security in the current environment in order to degrade one’s view of self and society, taking advantage of a state of fear and threats. The leaders of groups that fall under the umbrella of “new religion” exploit individuals in order to commit crimes. The article examines the styles and functions of selected religious movements and sects and presents the actions taken by national governments and supranational organisations to protect the public against the destructive impact of new religious movements and sects.