Everyday Religiosity and the Politics of Belonging in Ukraine

In Ukraine, religion has become a crucial political force due to its history with Russia and its struggle to establish a new future. Everyday religiosity has been weaponized and securitized to advance political agendas, enabling religiosity to be present in public spaces, institutions, and wartime politics. Catherine Wanner's book investigates the conditions that catapulted religiosity, institutions, and leaders to the forefront of politics and geopolitics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2022
Publisher: Cornell University Press

Everyday Religiosity and the Politics of Belonging in Ukraine

Ukraine's complex history with Russia has left a profound legacy that continues to shape the country's political landscape. In this context, religion has emerged as a powerful force, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country's future.

The book explores how and why religion has become a central political actor in Ukraine, particularly in the context of the ongoing tensions between Russia and the West. It examines the ways in which religion is being weaponized and securitized to advance political agendas, enabling it to become increasingly present in public spaces, public institutions, and wartime politics.

The author, Catherine Wanner, conducts extensive research based on ethnographic data and interviews conducted since before the Revolution of Dignity and the outbreak of armed combat in 2014. Through her analysis, Wanner investigates the conditions that have catapulted religiosity, religious institutions, and religious leaders to the forefront of politics and geopolitics.

One of the key findings of the book is that everyday religiosity plays a significant role in shaping political identities and ideologies. Religious practices and rituals are used to reinforce social bonds and create a sense of belonging among individuals and communities. This, in turn, contributes to the politicization of religion, as religious leaders and institutions become involved in political debates and decision-making processes.

Furthermore, the book highlights the role of religious institutions in promoting social cohesion and stability. Religious organizations often provide social services, such as healthcare and education, to marginalized populations, helping to address social inequality and promote social justice. They also play a role in mediating conflicts and promoting peace, particularly in times of crisis.

However, the politicization of religion can also have negative consequences. Religious leaders and institutions can become involved in political conflicts, leading to divisions and tensions within communities. This can also contribute to the marginalization of certain religious groups and the suppression of religious freedom.

To address these challenges, the book proposes several recommendations. One of the key recommendations is the promotion of religious diversity and tolerance. This can be achieved through education programs that promote interfaith dialogue and understanding, as well as through policies that protect the rights of religious minorities and promote religious freedom.

Another recommendation is the recognition of the role of religious institutions in promoting social cohesion and stability. This can be achieved through policies that support religious organizations and their social services, as well as through partnerships between religious institutions and government agencies.

Finally, the book emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to the politicization of religion. This requires a recognition of the complex and multifaceted nature of religion and its relationship to politics, as well as a willingness to engage with religious leaders and institutions in a constructive and respectful manner.

In conclusion, Everyday Religiosity and the Politics of Belonging in Ukraine provides a valuable insight into the role of religion in shaping political identities and ideologies in Ukraine. The book highlights the ways in which religion is being weaponized and securitized to advance political agendas, as well as the positive and negative consequences of this politicization. By promoting religious diversity and tolerance, recognizing the role of religious institutions in promoting social cohesion and stability, and adopting a nuanced approach to the politicization of religion, Ukraine can strive to overcome the legacy of its complex past and chart a new future.

Weight: 380g
Dimension: 151 x 229 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501764981