This article analyzes in detail the types of State-confessional relations in modern political and legal systems and their impact on the exercise of freedom of religion by an individual. Particular attention is paid to the classification and description of such basic models of interaction between the state and religious associations as secularism, authoritarian control, cooperative model. Their manifestations in various countries, including European states and former Soviet republics, emphasize the real development of religious policy in the post-totalitarian period. In the context of strengthening socio-political stability, national security, civic identity, the author emphasizes the importance of analyzing religious policy and institutionalizing state-confessional relations. The author considers the legal and socio-cultural interpretation of the concepts of «traditional religion» and «state religion» and examines the complexity of their application in multinational and multi-confessional societies. Particular attention is paid to the thesis that the typology of models of State-confessional relations is determined by the historical nature of interaction between religious institutions and society, which is especially pronounced. Analyzing various examples, the author proposes to take into account the cultural and historical context when developing a balanced and effective religious policy based on the principles of human rights, pluralism and mutual respect.