The Role of the Georgian Orthodox Church and Diasporas in the Formation of Informal Social Networks and the Resocialization Process (The Case of Illegal Migrants from Georgia to Italy)

This paper examines the role and influence of the Georgian Orthodox Church (GOC) in Georgian society from the post-Soviet period to 2020. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the GOC emerged as a significant cultural, moral, and political force in Georgia. It actively contributed to the reestablishment of national identity by preserving Georgian traditions and language, and positioned itself as a guardian of Georgian values amidst Western influences. The GOC's influence extended into politics through its alignment with successive Georgian governments, securing legal privileges and a prominent role in public education. Its conservative stance, shaped public discourse and policy. The Church’s growing influence in social, political, and educational sectors highlights its central role in Georgian society. The research also explores the Georgian diaspora, focusing on the role of religious institutions in Italy, and their impact on community cohesion and cultural preservation. Keywords: Georgian Orthodox Church, national identity, post-Soviet Georgia, political influence, diaspora, religious institutions.