ECHR rules that Ukraine violated right to faith of UOC community from Ptycha
ECHR. Photo: BBC
On September 2, 2025, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) issued a decision in the case 8906/19 of the religious community of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church from the village of Ptycha, Dubno district, Rivne region, establishing that the state of Ukraine violated Article 9 of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights – the right to freedom of conscience and religion. This was reported by the press service of the Rivne Eparchy of the UOC.
The conflict around the Dormition Church in Ptycha began in 2014 when representatives of the former Kyiv Patriarchate (later – OCU) claimed it. The confrontation between believers continued for several years and was accompanied by violence, while the authorities, according to the court, did not ensure the community's ability to peacefully use the church.
In response, the believers filed a complaint with the ECHR, stating that the inaction of state bodies limited their right to freely practice their religion. The Court found the complaint partially justified and ruled that Ukraine violated the rights of the UOC community.
The decision emphasizes that the state cannot remain passive in religious conflicts and is obliged to act as a neutral mediator and protect the ability to practice faith without pressure and threats.
The decision in the Ptycha case became an important legal precedent, confirming that freedom of religion must be guaranteed regardless of religious or political circumstances.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that UN experts urged Ukraine to revise the law banning the UOC.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.