Ethno-confessional map of religious education in Ukraine

Abstract

The article explores the regional aspects of the formation of the religious environment in Ukraine within the field of education. The author analyzes contemporary research by Ukrainian scholars, particularly their academic works and publications that highlight various aspects of religious education. The study differentiates the concept of "religious education," examines the educational programs of religious educational institutions, and assesses their representation on the Internet. The research establishes the correlation between the historical continuity of religious education in Ukrainian territories and the modern educational landscape of the state.

The article provides a historical overview of the religious, cultural, and political factors that have influenced the development of denominational life in Ukraine. It describes the coexistence of representatives of various denominations, including Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and Protestants, while also analyzing the presence of other religious movements such as Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and Krishnaists. The historical prerequisites for the formation of a specific religious-educational space in Ukrainian lands are examined in the context of the legal and regulatory framework governing the activities of denominational educational institutions. The study identifies the key characteristics of religious education in Ukraine. Furthermore, the article systematizes information on the distribution of educational institutions, programs, and practices that take into account the ethnic and denominational structure of the population across different regions. The study emphasizes Ukraine’s significant role as a platform for interdenominational and intercultural dialogue.