Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ilze Brands Keris, speaking at a meeting of the UN Security Council on January 17, 2023, expressed concern about the submission to the Ukrainian parliament of two bills “that could weaken the right to freedom of religion or belief, enshrined in Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and political rights.” This is reported by the Information and Education Department of the UOC with reference to the UN website.

“We recall that, in accordance with international human rights law, any restrictions on the right to manifest one’s religion or belief must be proportionate and established by law. We call on both parties to respect and ensure the non-discriminatory exercise of the general right to freedom of opinion and expression, peaceful assembly, association and religion,” said the UN Assistant Secretary-General.

In November and December, she said, the Security Service of Ukraine conducted searches in the premises and places of worship of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. At least three clerics are now facing criminal charges, including treason and denying Russia’s “armed aggression” against Ukraine.

“We call on the Ukrainian authorities to ensure that any searches of premises and places of worship are carried out in full compliance with international law, that persons facing criminal charges are given the right to a fair trial, and that any criminal prosecution does not result in a violation of the rights to freedom of expression and religion,” the UN representative stressed.