UOC hierarch’s lawyer: How will Ukraine be in the EU with such justice?

Flags of Ukraine and the European Union. Photo: dw.com

Lawyer Ihor Chudovsky, representing Metropolitan Jonathan of Tulchyn and Bratslav, reminded that one of the main conditions for Ukraine's accession to the European Union is the rule of law.

Chudovsky mentioned that American lawyer Bob Amsterdam had joined the defense of Metropolitan Ionafan, publicly expressing concern about the persecution not only of the bishop but also of the entire UOC.

The lawyer reminded of a UN report highlighting the deteriorating human rights situation in Ukraine.

In the context of discussions about the "evidence" of Metropolitan Jonathan's guilt, Chudovsky emphasized that they were fabricated, acknowledged not only by Vinnytsia courts but also recognized worldwide.

He stated that abroad, questions are being raised about "how the state of Ukraine will enter the European Union with such a judiciary."

Chudovsky recalled that a key criterion for Ukraine's EU accession was to reduce corruption levels and establish the rule of law. According to him, Ukraine needs legislation where 80–90% of citizens will trust the courts.

He noted that regarding Metropolitan Jonathan's case, there is an impression that the judge was instructed to do everything "as needed."

"We will go to the appellate instance, cassation instance, or we will go to the European Court," said the lawyer. He added that Metropolitan Jonathan's case indicates a violation of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects freedom of religion and the right to express one's views.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that an American human rights defender was shocked by the cases against UOC hierarchs.

Read also

Official on empty OCU churches:“Epifaniy just stands there blinking”

Ukrainian officials are sounding the alarm: the OCU has only half as many priests as churches.