Estonian Orthodox Church Challenges Proposed Law, Citing Threat to Religious Freedom

orthodox.ee and OCP News Service – 27/01/2025

Tallinn- Estonia: The Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (EOC MP) has voiced strong opposition to a proposed amendment to the Churches and Parishes Act, arguing that the legislation infringes upon fundamental rights and freedoms of religious organizations. The Church’s concerns come amid ongoing challenges, including the state’s refusal to extend Metropolitan Yevgeny’s residence permit and the need for continuous confirmation of the Church’s legal standing.

Bishop Daniel stated that the bill, approved by the government on January 23, 2025, specifically targets the EOC MP and directly threatens religious freedom. “Although the government justifies the changes by the security situation, this is a direct interference in freedom of religion, which may significantly limit the activities of our Church in Estonia,” he said.

The proposed amendments could force the liquidation of the Church’s legal entities, as the stipulated requirements may be impossible to meet within the given timeframe. Bishop Daniel explained, “The planned restrictions affect canon law, and fulfilling the requirements may prove impossible for reasons beyond the control of the Church and its parishes. The forced, canonically illegal severance of ties with one’s Patriarchate and transition to another Patriarchate is an interference in the internal life of religious associations.”

In response to these challenges, the EOC MP has taken proactive steps, including applying for registration of a new name: Estonian Christian Orthodox Church (Eesti Kristlik Õigeusu Kirik). “This step further emphasizes the local identity of the Church and shows that we act in accordance with the laws of the Republic of Estonia, while adhering to the canons of the Church,” Bishop Daniel added.

The Church is actively working with legal experts to find solutions that comply with both Estonian and international law. They are seeking reasonable compromises that protect the rights of parishioners and preserve the Church’s core values. The EOC MP emphasized its commitment to constructive dialogue with state institutions. “At the first meeting at the Ministry of the Interior, we were promised the opportunity to resolve the issue in a canonical manner, which requires more time. We very much hope that this promise will remain in force,” Bishop Daniel said.

The EOC MP also pointed to a report from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, which states that national security is not a justifiable basis for restricting religious freedom under international and EU law. The report emphasizes that any restrictions must be necessary and proportionate, with less restrictive measures explored first. The Church believes the proposed amendments fail this test.

Source:

OCP News Service and orthodox.ee