Defense of The Faith
Can Anti-Russian Policy Become Anti-Orthodox?
As Czech institutions scrutinize possible Russian influence in Orthodox circles, the case tests the boundary between legitimate oversight and religious suspicion.
The Orthodox Church of the Czech Lands and Slovakia in recent years has found itself amid a debate over Russian influence in Czechia. Concerns from the government have been raised about the relationship between the autocephalous church and its relationship to the Moscow Patriarchate.
States have long used cultural institutions to build relationships and promote their interests abroad. Russia is no exception. However, due to Orthodoxy being tied to Russia, communities in Europe have seen increased scrutiny since the war in Ukraine. There are real concerns in matters of national security for any state. However, pressure towards the Czech Orthodox Church raises questions as to where real investigation of foreign influence ends and suspicion toward a religious community begins.
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