International body expresses worries about restriction imposed on Ukrainian Orthodox religious organization
The United Nations has voiced worries about Ukraine's move to outlaw the Ukrainian Orthodox Church with strong associations to Russia. As revealed by Ravina Shamdasani, the UN Human Rights Office spokesperson, this legislation sparks "substantial apprehensions regarding the upholding of international human rights standards, specifically religious freedom." The UN requires further investigation into the intricacies of this law.
On August 24, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy enacted a law prohibiting churches with affiliations to Moscow. This legislation, previously sanctioned by parliament, specifically targets religious organizations that maintain ties with Russia.
Despite the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which shares connections with the Moscow Patriarchate, officially cutting ties with Moscow following the onset of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022, the Kyiv administration alleges that the church leadership continues to work in tandem with Russian clergy and remains reliant on the Russian Orthodox Church and Moscow. The Russian Orthodox Church is a staunch supporter of the Kremlin and its invasion of Ukraine.
Once boasting the majority of Ukraine's faith-based followers, an Orthodox-majority nation, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has witnessed a significant decline in its congregation in recent years. A separate, self-governing church has emerged as a result.
The UN, expressing concerns about the situation, has urged Ukraine to ensure that the implementation of the controversial law does not infringe upon religious freedoms, as voiced by the UN Human Rights Office. Recognizing the UN's role in maintaining international peace and human rights, Ukraine should conduct thorough investigations to address the concerns raised by the UN regarding this law.
