MEDIATION IN THE RELIGIOUS SPHERE: MYTH OR REALITY?

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to determine the possibilities and limitations of applying mediation as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism within religious organizations in Ukraine. The study is based on the analysis of Ukrainian legislation, statutory documents of religious organizations, and scholarly approaches to mediation and religious conflict resolution. The article examines the specific nature of religious conflicts, existing mechanisms of conflict resolution in religious organizations, and the potential of mediation in this field. It is argued that religious mediation may be effective in disputes concerning communication within communities, property use, interpersonal tensions, and interfaith cooperation, while its application is limited in cases involving dogmatic issues, canonical jurisdiction, or the absence of voluntary participation. The practical significance of the study lies in the formulation of recommendations for the implementation of mediation practices in the religious sphere.