THE INSTITUTION OF THE PRESIDENCY IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROJECT OF A UNIFIED ORTHODOX CHURCH AS A FACTOR IN ENSURING THE RELIGIOUS SECURITY OF UKRAINE

Abstract

B a c k g r o u n d . In the contemporary context of the transformation of state–church relations and the intensification of security challenges facing Ukraine, the study of the role of state institutions in shaping a stable religious environment becomes particularly relevant. One of the significant processes in this regard has been the formation of a Unified Orthodox Church in Ukraine, which occurred with the participation of state institutions. In this context, the analysis of the role of the institution of the presidency in supporting processes of ecclesiastical consolidation and their impact on the religious security of the state becomes increasingly important.

M e t h o d s . The study employs a set of general scientific and special research methods, including analysis and synthesis, a systemic approach, the historical-comparative method, and the method of political and religious studies analysis. The application of these methods made it possible to examine the specific features of interaction between state institutions and religious organizations in the process of forming a unified Orthodox structure in Ukraine.

R e s u l t s . The study found that the involvement of the institution of the presidency in the process of establishing a Unified Orthodox Church had a significant impact on the transformation of state–church relations and on the formation of a new confessional configuration within Ukrainian Orthodoxy. The main stages of the implementation of this project were analyzed, and its significance for strengthening Ukraine's spiritual independence was determined. It is shown that the process of creating a Unified Orthodox Church is considered an important element of the state's humanitarian policy aimed at overcoming religious fragmentation and increasing the level of religious security.

C o n c l u s i o n s . It is concluded that the institution of the presidency played an important role in supporting the processes of constituting a Unified Orthodox Church in Ukraine. Its involvement contributed to the institutional formation of a new church structure and to strengthening the religious independence of the state. At the same time, the further development of state–church relations requires maintaining a balance between the principle of the secular nature of the state and the need to ensure religious security.