Ukrainian Orthodox Church Denounces Draft Law, Cites Rights Violations and Seeks International Support

Information and Education Department of UOC – OCP News Service – 12/04/2024

Kyiv – Ukraine: The Holy Synod of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) issued a strong statement on April 10th, expressing deep concern over what they see as a systematic violation of their religious freedom and that of their followers.

The Synod specifically addressed draft law No. 8371, which they believe threatens religious liberty in Ukraine. However, the statement goes beyond the draft law, detailing broader concerns about the current state of religious freedom for the UOC.

The Synod declared their intention to inform other Orthodox Churches, foreign governments, and international human rights organizations about the alleged infringement of their rights. This move underscores the UOC’s desire to garner international support for their position.

The Synod emphasized the UOC’s self-governing status and its independence from the Russian Orthodox Church. They highlighted that the UOC’s administrative center has been located in Kyiv since 1990.

The statement goes on to detail specific instances of alleged persecution. These include:

• Criminal charges against UOC clergy and members on what the church considers fabricated grounds.
• Seizure of churches and other UOC property.
• Unlawful re-registration of UOC congregations into the newly formed Orthodox Church of Ukraine.
• The UOC claims nearly 1,500 churches have been seized to date.
• Local authorities allegedly taking unlawful actions to restrict the UOC’s use of its own property.

Source:

OCP News Service