The Estonian Parliament has reignited controversy by once again approving a law that could lead to the dissolution of the Estonian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (EOC-MP) as a legal entity. The bill, which has twice been vetoed by President Alar Karis, is being pushed forward by lawmakers citing national security concerns.

According to Estonian media reports, the constitutional committee of the Riigikogu has given the green light to amendments requiring the EOC-MP to sever its canonical ties with the Russian Orthodox Church. Failure to comply could result in the Ministry of the Interior initiating legal proceedings to liquidate Orthodox parishes affiliated with the Moscow Patriarchate.

Ando Kiviberg, chair of the parliamentary committee, defended the move earlier this week, stating that “national security considerations significantly outweigh the rights of individuals,” including freedom of religion. The statement has drawn criticism from religious leaders, legal scholars, and human rights advocates, who warn that the law threatens constitutional freedoms.

The Estonian Orthodox Church has called the law politically motivated and discriminatory, expressing gratitude to President Karis for his consistent opposition. In a July 3 press release, the Church emphasized its autonomy and commitment to Estonian law and values, particularly religious freedom.

Legal experts representing the Church argue that the amendments remain superficial and fail to address fundamental human rights concerns. They accuse the Riigikogu of ignoring the President's recommendations and bypassing a thorough legal review.

The growing tension has drawn international attention. The Church and the historic Pühtitsa Convent have appealed for support not only from the President but also from international bodies such as the OSCE and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).

Support for the Church has come from across religious and academic circles. Archbishop Urmas Viilma of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church and University of Tartu law professor Merilin Kiviorg are among those warning that the legislation creates legal uncertainty and endangers religious liberty in Estonia.

As the bill continues to stir national and international concern, the fate of the EOC-MP remains uncertain, with legal and political challenges likely to continue in the months ahead.