Amsterdam: MPs refuse to communicate with lawyers about Bill 8371
His Beatitude Metropolitan Onuphry and Robert Amsterdam. Photo: UOC press service
Robert Amsterdam, the head of the international law firm Amsterdam & Partners LLP representing the legal interests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, reported that he had sent personal letters to members of the Verkhovna Rada regarding accountability and personal sanctions for Law No. 8371, but they avoided communicating with lawyers. He told BBC about it.
"The argument that my warning constitutes interference in Ukraine's internal affairs demonstrates how far Ukraine has strayed from the ideals of political accountability and reasoned debate. The letter was intended to remind the Rada of the sanctions awaiting its members if they pass Bill 8371," said Amsterdam.
He reminded that despite pressure, UOC parishioners continue to assist their country. "Some UOC believers have voluntarily gone to the front. Several UOC priests blessed believers to go to the front. UOC temples pray for Ukraine's victory. The UOC has been a loyal supporter of Ukraine. Metropolitan Onuphry of the UOC continues to pray for Ukraine's victory in the war. The UOC has also provided significant assistance to Ukrainian soldiers and supported thousands of displaced Ukrainians at home and abroad," noted the human rights activist.
The lawyer reiterated the discriminatory nature of the proposed anti-church bill and stated that this law would collectively punish innocent Ukrainian citizens, depriving them of the Church they call home.
As reported by the UOJ, Amsterdam previously stated that "his letters are an absolute bare minimum; lawmakers must understand that they cannot destroy a 1,000-year-old church in silence."
Read also
Kosovo to enact law restricting Serbian Church, experts say
Analysts warn that the new "Law on Foreigners" in Kosovo could restrict the presence of clergy, believers' access to shrines, and increase pressure on the Serbian community.
Congress Speaker: Demand to introduce Sharia law in USA is a serious problem
The Speaker of the House of Representatives stated that there is growing concern in society about attempts to impose Islamic law, which is incompatible with the American Constitution.
UK government introduces restrictions on "anti-Muslim hostility"
UK authorities have adopted a new definition of "Islamophobia" which, according to experts, could provide Muslims with special protection and restrict freedom of speech.
Dumenko brings icon in Church Slavonic to Ministry of Health
Epifaniy presented cardiologists with an Intercession icon, with inscriptions in Church Slavonic, which his structure calls a "sign of the Moscow tradition".
ISIS supporters carries out terrorist attack at anti-Islamic protest in NY
Near the home of New York's Muslim mayor, radicals threw two makeshift bombs at protesters during an anti-Islamic rally.
Hryshchuk: If UOC hands over its church itself, angle grinders aren't needed
An OCU chaplain called on UOC believers to accept the loss of the shrine for the sake of their own "enlightenment".