UN: UOC bans by local councils are beyond their powers
The UN flag.Photo: mtwtu
Bans on the UOC and termination of lease agreements with the Church's communities go beyond the authority of local authorities and are discriminatory in nature. This conclusion is contained in the Report on the human rights situation in Ukraine for the period from 1 February to 30 April 2023, recently released by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights following the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission to Ukraine.
"During April 2023, the city and regional councils of Khmelnytskyi, Rivne and Volyn regions banned 'UOC operation' in their respective territories, following the regional councils of Lviv, Zhytomyr, Vinnytsia and Ternopil regions, even though such a ban falls beyond the authority of local councils," the report states. “Many local councils have also applied for the termination of leases of communal property with the UOC. The HRMMU is concerned that the cumulative effect of the government's actions against the UOC may be discriminatory".
As reported, the UN recorded a surge of violence and hate speech against the UOC.
Read also
OCA Joins Legal Challenge to Illinois Abortion Referral Law
Amicus brief argues mandate violates religious freedom and compels pro-life providers to contradict their faith.
EXCLUSIVE: Leaked Ukrainian Memo Says Religious Freedom is ‘Achilles Heel’
In an emergency strategy meeting held in response to the Society of St. John's Day of Action, D.C.-based Ukrainian lobbyists acknowledged the weight of the religious freedom issue as it pertains to the Ukrainian government’s public perception.
Historic $2.9 Million Bequest Strengthens Greek Orthodox Foundation
The Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Foundation has received a record $2.9 million bequest from the late Andy Efthim, a devoted layman whose faith-filled generosity will support the Church’s mission for generations.
UOC Priest Spared from Forced Conscription After Dramatic Intervention
Unlike other denominations, UOC clergy lack official exemptions, fueling accusations of targeted persecution amid ongoing war.
Sen. Grassley Dismisses Persecution of UOC as Russian Propaganda
The comments were made in response to the pan-Orthodox summit held yesterday at the U.S. Capitol.
Women and Girls at Risk in UK Sports Centres, Report Finds
A report reveals that mixed-sex changing rooms in UK sports centres are putting women and girls at serious risk of sexual assault and voyeurism, prompting calls for single-sex facilities.