Austrian advocates about UOC ban: A decision of questionable legality

Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. Photo: inforesist

The Austrian non-governmental organization OIDAC (Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe) published a report for 2022-2023, highlighting the law aimed at effectively banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC).

At the time of the report's preparation, the Ukrainian Parliament had preliminarily approved a bill aimed at banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (October 19, 2023).

Referring to this legislative initiative, OIDAC concludes that "this is a decision of questionable legality that is likely to face challenges in Ukraine's justice system and potentially at the ECtHR."

As previously reported by the UOJ, the Austrian NGO OIDAC Europe also noted in its report that people in Ukraine are being persecuted for their religious beliefs.

Read also

Ukraine’s Chief Rabbi: The time has come to build the Third Temple

The spiritual leader of Ukraine’s Jewish community commented on Tucker Carlson’s claims about the religious motives behind the war in the Middle East.

US bars removal of children from parents who reject gender transition

U.S. authorities have affirmed the right of families to raise their children in accordance with their religious convictions and biblical understanding of sex.

DESS draws parallels between liquidation of UGCC and present day

An event in Kyiv marked the 80th anniversary of the Lviv Council, at which a decision was taken to dissolve the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.

Bulgarian Church warns of sectarian threat after mass suicide

The Lovech Eparchy of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church has issued a warning following the tragedy of a mass suicide involving sect members near the Petrohan Pass.

UN reports violations of rights of believers and communities in Ukraine

A UN document points to pressure on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, attempts to ban it through the courts, and cases of forcible church seizures.

Middle East Council of Churches calls for protection of Christians in the region

Christian churches in the Middle East warned of growing threats to the region’s Christian communities and a worsening humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, urging the international community to step up support.