Systematic repression of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the need for an EU response

Question for written answer E-004874/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)

Recent joint interventions within the framework of the Special Procedures of the UN Human Rights Council denounce systematic violations of religious freedom in Ukraine, including persecution of the old/canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), deprivation of Metropolitan Onufriy's citizenship, confiscation of churches, criminal prosecutions of clergy and human rights defenders, as well as violent attacks and torture.

Kyiv is implementing the law 'on the protection of constitutional order in the sphere of the activities of religious organisations', which, according to the UN, violates the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and deprives the UOC of fundamental rights, leading to a de facto ban on the Church and widespread violations of religious and cultural heritage.

As the EU states that it supports the rule of law, religious tolerance and the protection of minorities, and given that UN complaints now document that the Kyiv regime is collectively targeting millions of believers of the pre-existing Orthodox Church:

• 1.How does the Commission assess the UN findings of 'collective punishment' of the UOC and blatant violations of religious freedom in Ukraine?
• 2.Will the Commission demand that the Ukrainian authorities immediately stop prosecutions, seizures and administrative measures against the UOC as a condition of the country's progression towards Europe?
• 3.Will the Commission consider activating sanctions mechanisms against Ukrainian entities responsible for the persecution of clergy, the destruction of monuments and violations of international obligations?

Submitted: 9.12.2025