Ukraine’s parliament has passed a bill banning religious groups associated with the Russian Orthodox Church or any faith group supporting Russia’s invasion. The legislation, which targets the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) due to its historical ties with the Russian church, allows the government to investigate and ban groups linked to Russia or its aggression.
The Verkhovna Rada approved the bill with significant support and only a few dissenting votes. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to sign it, citing the need for Ukrainian spiritual independence. The bill prohibits activities of the Russian Orthodox Church and any organizations with ties to Russia, describing them as extensions of the aggressor state and accomplices to war crimes.
Despite the UOC’s declaration of independence from Moscow, the Ukrainian government remains skeptical, citing ongoing affiliations and allegations against its clergy. Critics, including UOC’s legal representatives, argue that the bill infringes on religious freedoms and constitutes collective punishment.
The legislation reflects deep-seated religious and cultural tensions exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, with the UOC’s connections to Russia fueling suspicion among Ukrainians. The bill also addresses the promotion of “Russian world” ideology, which is seen as ideological aggression by Ukraine.
Shongjog 