"Almost Byzantium": Ukraine announces transition to a model of church-state partnership

The government of Ukraine and representatives of the country’s leading denominations agreed to transform their relations into a «church-state partnership» format. During the official meeting of the Prime Minister with the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations (AUCCRO), agreements were reached on the implementation of new legislative initiatives and strengthening coordination in matters of state defense. This was reported on the DESS Facebook page.

The event was held on May 29, 2026, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. The discussion, which was moderated by the head of the DESS, Viktor Yelensky, was attended by the leaders of the OCU, the UGCC, representatives of the Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim and Jewish communities. Svyrydenko thanked the religious leaders for their contribution to the defense of the country, noting that the government and the Church are currently «on the same page.»

The discussion focused on chaplaincy and comprehensive support for military families. Representatives of religious organizations presented the government with a package of proposals to «harmonize» legislation, which the prime minister promised to implement in the near future. In addition, the participants of the meeting agreed to work together on educational programs aimed at raising public morale and educating young people in the spirit of patriotism. Such consultations are regular and serve as a permanent channel for coordinating actions between the state and religious communities.

Earlier, the DESS confirmed discrimination against UOC priests in the issue of clergy reservations from mobilization.