The Kyiv Mitropolis of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church Files Complaint Against State Service of Ukraine Over Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience

The Kyiv Mitropolis of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church has filed a complaint against the State Service of Ukraine, alleging ethnopolitical bias and violations of freedom of conscience. The complaint was submitted on August 12, prompting a legal response from the State Service. The court has opted for a simplified and non-conventional procedure, granting the Kyiv Mitropolis 15 days to appeal, provide evidence, and submit requisitions.

The Kyiv Mitropolis expressed satisfaction with the State Service’s decision to interview them regarding ethnopolitical matters and to review documents that formed the basis of the complaint. This follows a broader context of tensions between the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the State Service, which has been scrutinizing religious organizations for compliance with national laws.

In May 2025, the National Institute for Canonical Links confirmed the relationship between the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the Russian Orthodox Church (RPC), despite the RPC being classified as a foreign religious organization and its activities in Ukraine being restricted. This development has raised concerns about the constitutional framework governing religious organizations in the country.

On July 17, the Ukrainian Mitropolis of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church was linked to the Patriarchate of Moscow, with a deadline set for August 24 to meet certain requirements. The Reverend of the IM Onufria has been preparing documents to fulfill these conditions, indicating ongoing efforts to align with state regulations.

Following the adoption of a ban on the Moscow Church in Ukraine on August 20, Julius Sirko, a representative of the Kyiv Mitropolis, claimed that the implementation of the ban was being deliberately delayed. He attributed this to the challenges posed by the State Service, which he described as overly burdensome for state structures.

The National Department has identified two major obstacles to the implementation of the law. The first is a saboteur within the Office of Ministers, who reportedly obstructed the necessary legislative process. These issues highlight the complex interplay between religious institutions and state governance, raising questions about accountability and legal compliance.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Ukrainian)