The Estonian Orthodox Church Reacts to Legislative Changes Limiting Religious Freedom

On April 9, 2025, changes to the law regarding churches and parishes were passed in Estonia, directly affecting the Estonian Orthodox Christian Church (EOC) and the Pühtitsa Monastery. These changes have raised concerns among church representatives, who believe they restrict their religious rights.

In its press release, the EOC stated that, despite adhering to Estonian laws, these changes are specifically targeted against the church. «We have always been a law-abiding Church, but these changes violate our right to freedom of religion,» stated a church representative.

The church pointed out that there has been no constructive dialogue on this matter in the past six months. Instead, the public has witnessed a media campaign that presented only one-sided opinions and arguments, significantly influencing the attitudes of the congregation: «We have witnessed a media campaign presenting only one side of the issue, which, unfortunately, has shaped a false perception of this problem.»

The EOC believes these changes limit their freedom of religion. «We will appeal to the President and the Chancellor of Justice to assess the legality of these changes and, if necessary, to international organizations,» emphasized the church representative. He also stressed that freedom of religion is a universal right and must be defended at the international level.

Despite these challenges, church representatives stated that they would not give up and would continue their service. «We trust the Lord and will fulfill our mission without grumbling or despair,» they concluded. They hope that with God’s help, they will overcome all the difficulties associated with the new legislative changes.

The EOC also noted that they would appeal to international bodies, as the issue of freedom of religion pertains not only to Estonia but also to international standards.

It is worth mentioning that on April 9, 2025, the Estonian Parliament voted in the third and final reading for amendments to the Law on Churches and Parishes, the ultimate goal of which is to restrict the activities of the Estonian Orthodox Christian Church. Once this law takes effect, the EOC will be forced to sever ties with the Russian Orthodox Church and unite with the local diocese of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Estonia.