Hierarchs of Local Orthodox Churches Announces the Creation of “Church Against Xenophobia and Religious Discrimination”

OCP News Service – 23/12/2023

Geneva – Switzerland: On December 19, 2023, a number of hierarchs and clergymen of the Local Orthodox Churches, together with non-governmental organizations in consultative status with the UN ECOSOC “Public Advocacy,” “VSI Zmogaus teisiu apsauga,” the European Institute for Religion and Law, signed an agreement on the establishment of the International Human Rights Association “Church Against Xenophobia and Religious Discrimination.”

The new human rights association was a response to violations of the rights of believers of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Ukraine.

The Coordinating Council of the International Association includes:

The association’s primary concerns include:

• Criminal Cases Against UOC Leaders: Several UOC metropolitans, including Theodosius (Snigirev) and Jonathan (Yeletsky), face criminal charges like spreading hate speech and have received harsh sentences. The group believes these accusations are unfounded and motivated by discrimination.
• Threat of UOC Ban: Draft law No. 8371 proposes a complete ban and liquidation of all UOC legal entities, raising fears of further marginalization and dispossession of the Church.
• Violence and Church Seizures: The association reports numerous instances of violence against UOC churches and believers, often with police inaction or even participation. Land plots and previously returned churches are also being targeted for seizure.
• Politically Motivated Convictions: The upcoming appeal hearing for Metropolitan Yeletsky, sentenced to five years in prison, carries a high risk of politically motivated conviction, further undermining judicial impartiality.
• Persecution of UN Human Rights Defender: Metropolitan Theodosius, who addressed the UN Human Rights Council about UOC’s plight, now faces pressure to be detained instead of being under house arrest, raising concerns about silencing human rights defenders.

“Church Against Xenophobia and Religious Discrimination” appeals to various actors:

• Ukrainian Authorities: The association urges President Zelensky and the government to uphold religious freedom and cease discriminatory practices against UOC believers.
• UN Bodies: UN special mandate holders, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Human Rights Council are called upon to address these violations and ensure accountability.
• International Community and Free Press: The group seeks broader awareness and practical assistance from the international community and media to pressure Ukrainian authorities and protect human rights.

The association welcomes requests for further information, evidence, and testimonies from UOC victims and leaders, offering direct communication to shed light on their situation. This development underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the UOC in Ukraine and the urgent need for international attention to safeguard religious freedom and prevent further persecution.