Estonia introduces church law amendments targeting EOC–MP

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn. Photo: pitbus.ru

The Estonian government has proposed amendments to the Churches and Congregations Act that could significantly impact the activities of the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (EOC–MP).

A total of 17 amendments were introduced, most of them proposed by the Ministry of the Interior.

If passed, the new legislation will prohibit religious organizations in Estonia from being subordinate to foreign entities that support military aggression. The Estonian Ministry of the Interior has openly stated that the bill is primarily aimed at the EOC–MP.

Chairman of the Riigikogu Legal Affairs Committee, Andre Hanimägi, emphasized that if the Moscow Patriarchate refuses to comply with the new law, the authorities may resort to legal prosecution. He also added that the initiative is not limited to Orthodox groups but applies to “all radical religious movements.”

The bill was introduced by Interior Minister Lauri Läänemets in October of last year. Officials claim its goal is to prevent the influence of foreign religious organizations that support military aggression. However, behind the broad wording lies a clear attempt to sever the EOC–MP’s ties with Moscow.

The final debate and third reading of the bill in Parliament may take place as early as April 9.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that an Estonian court approved the Church’s request to change its official name.

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