ON THE QUESTION OF VACCINATION OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Religious faith and security play integral yet invisible roles within religious organizations. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted affluent regions to take action, heightening concern for those who previously overlooked safety measures to curb the virus’s spread. That is why the issue of religious security is related to the activities of religious organizations. In particular, highlighting the specifics of the attitude of Jehovah’s Witnesses to the vaccination process during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important direction for establishing the specifics of the reaction of religious organizations to global challenges. The significance of nutrition within the context of Jehovah’s Witnesses arises from their preference for non-vicarious medicines, avoiding those derived from blood plasma and associated medical procedures involving blood transfusions. Despite this stance, vaccination, made from God-approved ingredients, is positively embraced by the religious organization. In the early stages of the pandemic, plans were underway to develop a vaccine from blood plasma, reflecting the experiences of many Jehovah’s Witness believers. Jehovah’s Witnesses in Sweden set a positive example during the pandemic, encouraging people to undergo the vaccination process. Official announcements, examples, and vaccination statistics were disseminated through the organization’s website. Representatives from Jehovah’s Council in various countries provided interviews and comments to local media outlets, emphasizing that Jehovah’s Witnesses do not oppose vaccination. However, they acknowledge that the decision is an individual one. During the pandemic, public events were restricted, shifting to an online format, including missionary activities that support the vital liturgical practice of Jehovah’s Witness skin testing. A survey was conducted among believers, revealing diverse opinions on vaccination dangers within the religious organization. Interestingly, a positive view of the international organization UNICEF emerged. Simultaneously, a small faction of Jehovah’s Witnesses expressed dissent, gaining visibility in the media space.