The head of the international human rights company Amsterdam & Partners LLP, Robert Amsterdam, who represents the legal interests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, has called the law No. 8371 aimed at banning the Ukrainian Orthodox Church “a form of purposeful discrimination that will collectively punish innocent Ukrainian citizens by depriving them of their church”. The human rights activist believes that by adopting such laws, the Ukrainian government is retreating from political responsibility and conducting unconstructive activities. He said in a comment to the BBC.

“The argument that my warning is an interference in Ukraine’s internal affairs is a demonstration of how far Ukraine has moved away from the ideals of political responsibility and reasoned debate. The letter was intended to remind the Rada of the sanctions that await its deputies if they pass Bill 8371”, – Amsterdam said.

The UOC lawyer is convinced that the law No. 8371, is an open form of discrimination against Ukrainian citizens based on their religious beliefs. He called this law “draconian and disproportionate, which is a form of purposeful discrimination that will collectively penalize innocent Ukrainian citizens by depriving them of the church they call home”.

In addition, Robert Amsterdam reported that he tried to set up a dialog with the people’s deputies of Ukraine on this issue, but they refused to communicate with the human rights activist. Therefore, he had to publish open letters to the entire Verkhovna Rada, convincing them to abandon the idea of adopting Law No. 8371.

“I wrote to each of them, however they refuse to cooperate with our law firm or any other important international organization that pointed out the flaws in the legislation and the broader threat to religious freedom”, – said the UOC lawyer.

Robert Amsterdam emphasized the absurdity of the accusations against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. He is convinced that the UOC, despite the pressure, remains part of Ukrainian society and actively interacts with state institutions, supporting the state during the war.

“Part of the UOC believers went to the front as volunteers. A number of UOC priests blessed believers to go to the front. In the churches of the UOC prayed for the victory of Ukraine. The UOC was a staunch supporter of Ukraine. The Primate of the UOC Metropolitan Onuphrius continues to pray for Ukraine’s victory in the war. The UOC has also provided tremendous assistance to the Ukrainian military and supported thousands of displaced Ukrainians at home and abroad”, – Amsterdam concluded.

We shall remind you that earlier we reported that Robert Amsterdam, who represents the legal interests of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, called on Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople to respond to the law No 8371 aimed at banning the activities of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. He wrote this in an open letter addressed to the head of the Phanar.