10/08/2024 | Press release | Archived content
8.10.2024
Priority question for written answer P-001989/2024
to the Commission
Rule 144
Petar Volgin (ESN)
On 20 August 2024, the Ukrainian Parliament passed a bill targeting various religious organisations, including the Ukrainian Orthodox Church - the largest Christian church in Ukraine in terms of the number of parishes and clerics, and recognised by the vast majority of practising Ukrainian believers.
This law, justified by the Ukrainian authorities on national security grounds due to alleged ties with Russia, raises serious concerns about its compatibility with fundamental human rights. It has sparked significant controversy, with accusations that it undermines religious freedom and could deepen societal divisions. Moreover, Article 10 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union guarantees the right of individuals to manifest their religion or belief.
Considering the Copenhagen criteria's emphasis on human rights, democracy and the rule of law:
Submitted: 8.10.2024