The World Council of Churches (WCC) affirms Ukraine’s “sovereign right and responsibility” to defend its territorial integrity and protect its citizens amid Russia’s illegal invasion. The WCC has “consistently condemned” Russia’s war against Ukraine and supports Ukrainian authorities’ right to prosecute individuals guilty of crimes against the nation.
However, the WCC expresses deep concern over the potential for “unjustified collective punishment” under a new law passed by the Ukrainian Rada on August 20, 2024, which awaits President Zelensky’s signature. The WCC urges the Ukrainian government to exercise caution, warning that the law could “violate the fundamental right to freedom of religion or belief” and “undermine social cohesion” during a time of national emergency.
The WCC acknowledges the six-step process outlined in the law before a religious organization can be banned but stresses the need for a “fair and unbiased approach” in any investigations. They argue that “neither the crimes of some individuals nor the historical affiliations of a particular religious entity” should justify collective punishment. The Ukrainian government is reminded of its responsibility to “protect the rights of all its citizens.”
Read here the full statement issued by WCC
The government of Ukraine has the sovereign right and responsibility to defend the nation’s territorial integrity and to protect its citizens, even more so in the face of Russia’s illegal invasion and armed aggression. The World Council of Churches (WCC) has consistently condemned Russia’s war against Ukraine, and we remain steadfast in that position. Ukrainian authorities have a right to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence, and to prosecute individuals guilty of crimes against the interests of Ukraine.
At the same time, the WCC is deeply alarmed by the potential for unjustified collective punishment of an entire religious community and violation of the principles of freedom of religion or belief under a new law approved by the Ukrainian Rada on 20 August 2024. The new law now awaits the signature of President Zelensky. We call again on the Ukrainian government to exercise caution in relation to measures that risk violating the fundamental right to freedom of religion or belief and undermining social cohesion at this time of national emergency.
We note the six-step process prescribed by the new law before a religious organisation can be banned, and plead that there be a fair and unbiased approach to any such investigation, and that due consideration be given to the principles of international law, natural justice and due process in undertaking any actions under this new law. Neither the crimes of some individuals, nor the historical affiliations of a particular religious entity, can be a sufficient basis for measures tantamount to collective punishment of a living worshipping religious community in Ukraine. The government of Ukraine is responsible for protecting the rights of all its citizens.
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General secretary
World Council of ChurchesBishop Dr Heinrich Bedford-Strohm
Moderator
World Council of Churches
