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In a recent publication, I introduced the theoretical framework of neosecularisation with regard to the Orthodox Church and society in Bulgaria. I argued that neosecularisation, as a complex process of decline of religion’s importance and the hold of religious authority over the social system, while genealogically different from communist secularisation, explicates patterns of continuity with the communist past. Important aspects of this continuity include the persistent grassroots feminisation of the Church and the co-optation of the Church by the state. Drawing on those theoretical insights, in this paper, I seek to understand the rise of anti-gender politics in Bulgaria since 2018 in relation to the condition of neosecularisation and its impact on the Church. I argue that (neo)secularisation remains a much feared “threat” for the Church and plays a role in ecclesiastical anti-gender mobilisation. However, the Church is not a major factor in anti-gender politics in Bulgaria; the roles of far-right nationalists and certain transnationally connected evangelical actors are to be seriously considered. Furthermore, anti-genderism cannot be understood merely as a religious or cultural backlash. It needs to be discussed as a larger protest movement against liberal democracy’s failure to live up to its promises and against the pathologies of neoliberal globalisation, a movement in which the Orthodox Church is only tangentially involved.

Religion as a Conversation Starter is the first comprehensive analysis of the present state of interreligious dialogue for peacebuilding in Southeast Europe. It is based on empirically grounded and policy-oriented research, carried out throughout the Balkans. The study maps recent interreligious relations in this part of the world, throwing light on both the achievements and challenges of interreligious dialogue for peacebuilding in particular, and offering a set of up-to-date policy recommendations, whilst contributing to a greater understanding of the local particularities and how they relate to broader trends transnationally. Interreligious dialogue has been a central tool in the continuous international efforts to promote peaceful living together in multicultural and multireligious societies. This fascinating monograph explores the place of interreligious dialogue as a primary method in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, and will be of interest to scholars of religious and peace studies, as well as those who advocate and carry out organized interventions in religion-related spheres.

Explores the relation of religion, nationalism, & the national state to the formation of new identities in postcommunist European societies. It is argued that positive ideals like self-determination & national independence are being converted from integrating, identity-creating elements into destructive forces. The historical background of postcommunist nationalism is traced, noting its preconditions, social-cultural origin, normative basis, distinguishing qualities, & contemporary manifestations. The mostly secular nationalism that emerged in Western Europe at the end of the 18th century is compared to an expanded 19th-century emphasis on ideology that created a \"secular-religious\" identity largely based on religious/cultural differences. The new nationalism grew within religious communities & utilized religious symbols, as well as certain aspects of religious doctrine, as part of its self-identity. It is shown that Eastern European postcommunist nationalism has followed suit, although it has taken varied forms in different states. The role of religion is explored as a medium for preserving identity & promoting intrasocietal integration, while also serving as a mechanism for producing animosity toward the Other. J. Lindroth