Estonian Christian Orthodox Church Expresses Concerns Over New Church Act Amendments, Citing Constitutional Issues

OCP News Service – 19/06/2025

Tallinn- Estonia: The Estonian Christian Orthodox Church (ECOC) has expressed significant regret and concern following the Riigikogu’s (Estonian Parliament) adoption of an updated version of the amendments to the Churches and Congregations Act on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The Church argues that the revised law still contains fundamental contradictions with the Estonian Constitution and interferes disproportionately with the internal life of religious associations.

The initial draft of the law was previously sent back to the Riigikogu by President Alar Karis on April 24, 2025, with a request to ensure its compliance with the Constitution. President Karis had highlighted the “disproportionate nature of the restrictions on freedom of religion and association,” warning against an “unclear and extensive ban” that could “penetrate to the core of freedom of religion and association and is not necessary in a democratic society” (ERR News, June 19, 2025; Riigikogu Press Service, June 18, 2025).

Despite the President’s previous objections, the ECOC states that the newly adopted version includes only partial amendments, failing to eliminate the core issues that led to the initial rejection. The Church asserts that the law continues to compel religious associations to make decisions that may conflict with their conscience and canonical law.

In light of recent statements by Metropolitan Stefanus, Head of the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church, the ECOC has deemed it necessary to clarify its position. The Church emphasizes that any proposals regarding vicariates or changes in canonical affiliation cannot be discussed under external pressure or in conditions of legal uncertainty. The ECOC firmly states that “canonical communion and church affiliation are issues of profound spiritual importance that must be resolved on the basis of church traditions and canon law, and not under the influence of political processes.” The Church expressed gratitude for the willingness to cooperate and hopes for a “constructive dialogue” among all Estonian Orthodox communities based on “mutual respect and canonical principles” in a calmer future (Estonian Christian Orthodox Church, June 19, 2025).

The Estonian Christian Orthodox Church maintains that the version of the law sent to the President does not fully address his initial remarks. They argue that the limited amendments do not remove the provisions that were inconsistent with the Constitution, raising ongoing concerns about adherence to constitutional principles. Furthermore, the ECOC believes that the argumentation presented during the Riigikogu’s discussion of the amendment did not sufficiently address questions regarding the law’s conformity with the Estonian Constitution, suggesting that legal bases and international standards for religious freedom may not have received adequate attention in the legislative process (Estonian Christian Orthodox Church, June 19, 2025).

The Estonian Christian Orthodox Church concludes by expressing hope that President Alar Karis, as the guarantor of the Constitution, will make a “considered decision.” The Church extended its wishes for “spiritual strength and wisdom” to Mr. Karis in his continued role of protecting the legal foundations of Estonia (Estonian Christian Orthodox Church, June 19, 2025).

Source:

OCP News Service