Dumenko: Ukrainian govt. doesn’t interfere in activities of denominations

Head of the OCU Epifaniy Dumenko and Verkhovna Rada Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk. Photo: pomisna.info

The head of the OCU Epifaniy Dumenko stated that the Ukrainian state, unlike the Russian one, allegedly "does not interfere in the internal life of religious communities". He said this during his speech at the "Crimean Forum 26-2-14", reports the OCU press service.

He noted that freedom of religion in Ukraine is ensured both by law and in practice. In contrast to Russia, where, according to Dumenko, the authorities have established "serious restrictions on the activities of religious organizations, including at the legislative level."

"In fact, in Russia, the Soviet system of control over religious communities has been revived, which occurs, including through the covert influence of special services," Dumenko said, comparing the authorities' attitude towards religion in Ukraine and Russia.

As reported, the President of Ukraine demanded that MPs quickly pass a law banning the UOC.

Read also

YouTube Deletes Channel of Greek UOJ

Greek branch of Union of Orthodox Journalists condemns move as censorship and an attempt to silence a voice defending Orthodoxy.

Texas Gov. Cracks Down on Abortion Pill

The legislation targets a “global abortion pill syndicate." Exemptions allow for legitimate medical uses, like treating ectopic pregnancies.

Ukraine Ramps Up Efforts to Ban UOJ Globally

UOJ’s website has been blocked in Ukraine since 2022, and recent moves target its global reach, including the recent removal of its Greek-language YouTube channel.

Kimberly Guilfoyle Welcomes EP to Capital

Amb. Guilfoyle celebrated the "unbreakable bonds between the United States, Greece, and the global Orthodox Christian community."

Visit of Pat. Bartholomew Continues with Vespers in Hamptons

Met. Maximos of Selyvria presided over the service at the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church of the Hamptons.

Pat. Bartholomew Holds Audience With Young Adult Leaders

Fr. Barnabas Powell and Abp. Elpidophoros spoke before an emotional Bartholomew shared his pride in the young Greek Orthodox community.