The new policy brief, Religion, Church and State in Belarus and Russia, explores these questions through an analysis of the evolving relationship between religious institutions and authoritarian governance in Belarus and Russia. The publication is based on discussions among Belarusian and Russian experts held in May 2026.
The brief examines the growing nexus between religion, state power, ideological mobilisation, and cross-border influence. Particular attention is given to the role of the Russian Orthodox Church as both an institutional and ideological partner of the Russian state, including its contribution to the religious and symbolic legitimisation of Russia's war against Ukraine.
At the same time, the publication highlights the role of Catholic, Greek Catholic, Protestant, independent Orthodox, and interfaith communities in preserving trust, human dignity, social cohesion, and Belarusian cultural identity under conditions of increasing political pressure and shrinking civic space.
The policy brief also analyses the risks associated with official religious diplomacy and the use of international religious networks and contacts to enhance the legitimacy of authoritarian regimes.
Based on this analysis, the paper recommends that European institutions and international partners combine the protection of freedom of religion and belief with support for religious plurality, civic resilience, and the independence of religious and social institutions.
Download the policy brief: Religion, Church and State in Belarus and Russia
A more detailed overview of the expert discussion on which the policy brief is based is available in the Russian-language synopsis: «Религия, церковь и государство в Беларуси и России»