Ukrainian modernist groups in an international context

Abstract

© Taylor & Francis Group. The article describes international ties of Islamic modernist groups in Ukraine and their participation in various international projects. The author analyzes the activity and international contacts of the most influential Ukrainian modernist groups-the Alraid association of civic organizations and the affiliated Ummah Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Ukraine. The conclusion is that representatives in Ukraine of the modernist direction in contemporary Islam are deeply incorporated into international networks in organization and finance, often as conduits for certain political or geopolitical projects. Specifics are discussed concerning those who aspire to legitimize themselves in the eyes of authorities by institutionalizing "traditional" spiritual administrations.