Wolność sumienia i wyznania więźniów na Ukrainie. Ujęcie prawne i socjologiczne
Freedom of conscience and religion of the prisoners in Ukraine. A legal and sociological perspective

Summary/Abstract: This article consists of two parts. The first one presents the situation of religious law of Ukrainian prisoners. The second one – the facts in this regard based on surveys conducted by the author. First, the author analysed the statutory rights of prisoners in terms of their freedom of conscience and religion, and then presented the main religious associations operating in Ukrainian prisons. Particular attention was paid to the position of the Catholic Church and the Interfaith Prison Mission. From empirical perspective the religious situation of Ukrainian and Polish prisoners was compared, and it was done in the context of chaplaincy experience. In the final part of the article, conclusions are drawn regarding the research done and recommendations calling for changes in the Ukrainian legal system are made. The author is of the opinion that freedom of conscience and religion of prisoners, formally guaranteed in the Ukrainian national legislation, is implemented in a satisfactory way. It is possible to establish institutions, stabilizing the presence of religious communities and chaplains in the prison environment.

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