The Estonian government approved the bill on amendments to the law on churches and parishes, which orders religious associations to change the charter and completely abandon “ties with the Russian Orthodox Church” (Russian Orthodox Church).
.
According to the Minister of Internal Affairs of Estonia Lauri Lauriemeth, the bill clarifies the conditions of administrative management of religious associations, as well as any economic dependence on religious organizations related to the governments of “hostile countries”.
“This undertaking is necessary because the Orthodox Church subordinate to the Moscow Patriarchate is the most important instrument of their influence in the country. This must be put an end,” said Minister Lyamette Estonian television.
According to the minister, the Estonian Orthodox Church will have to change its charter, “completely emerging from subordination to Moscow.”
Religious associations will be given two months to prepare
According to an explanatory letter to the bill, amendments to the law concern people who have a significant impact in a foreign state, if this poses a threat to security, the constitutional system or social order of Estonia.
In addition, the leadership of persons who support and call for war or terrorist crime is not allowed.
After the amendments to the religious associations and societies entered into force, two months will be given to bring the charters, the composition of government and activity in accordance with the updated legislation.