Challenges of the Religious Leadership in the Era of Digitalization and Information-Communication Technology: The Example of North Macedonia and Serbia

Zabijakin Chatleska, Vesna and Maksimović, Marijana and Cacanoska, Ružica (2026) Challenges of the Religious Leadership in the Era of Digitalization and Information-Communication Technology: The Example of North Macedonia and Serbia. Occasional Papers On Religion In Eastern Europe Manuscript 2759, 46 (4). pp. 52-88. ISSN 2693-2229

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Abstract

The rapid development of digital and information-communication technologies resulted in their widespread use in everyday professional and personal life, via various forms of manifestation, such as, social networks, podcasts, and artificial intelligence. The willingness and the capability of religious leaders to accept information and communication innovations, and to adjust them to the existing specific structure of the religious communities, presupposes a strategic re-thinking of the religious practices and the relations with the believers in the online space. New technologies have enabled simpler and faster communication in religious communities, but with the use of digital technologies, religious leaders as spiritual authorities and preachers of faith, enter the virtual space that is subject to public oversight. This research analyzes the challenges that religious leaders face when using digital technologies. The paper presents findings from a qualitative study on the perceptions and experiences of the religious communities’ representatives, in regard to the religious leadership practices and communication with believers in a digital context, by using the example of North Macedonia and Serbia. The main findings reveal that digital tools are considered a necessity for maintaining visibility, communication, and relevance in a rapidly changing social environment, but at the same time, cautiousness about the integration of digital technology is being expressed, with a strongly emphasized affirmation of traditional theological boundaries

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