Estonia Passes Law Mandating Severance of Moscow Church Ties

Estonia's parliament has passed legislation requiring the Estonian Orthodox Church to sever ties with the Moscow Patriarchate, a move seen as a response to the church's perceived support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The law mandates that religious organizations cannot be influenced by foreign entities that threaten Estonia's security and public order, with non-compliance potentially leading to legal action against the church. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the amendments as a violation of human rights, claiming they undermine religious freedoms and the rights of believers. Proponents of the law argue it aims to prevent the church from being used to incite violence or aggression, particularly linked to the Moscow Patriarchate's support for military actions. The legislation awaits presidential approval and requires the church to update its statutes within two months to comply with the new requirements. This development is part of a broader effort by Estonia to reduce Russian influence in the country following the invasion of Ukraine.