Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church - July 26th 2023

Mister President,

I thank the briefers for their interventions. Brazil attaches great importance to the freedom of religion or belief, without discrimination. We believe in the potential of religious practice to advance the human spirit, bring peoples and cultures together, build trust and contribute to the peaceful resolution of disputes.

We regret that the conflict has also contaminated ties between Orthodox communities in Russia and Ukraine. We take note of the recent detention of clerics of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Brazil reaffirms its confidence in the full application of the rule of law and in the discernment of the judicial authorities to ensure the rights of the detainees, including respect for their religious freedom.

Mister President,

Brazil’s position on this issue remains unchanged. I would like to reiterate three points.

First, freedom of religion is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination based on Religion or Belief, adopted by the General Assembly in 1981. It is also a fundamental tenet of our own Constitution and of our way of living as a pluralistic and multi-ethnic society.

Second, we encourage initiatives to promote an environment of tolerance and respect for religious diversity. Under no circumstances should religious practice be used to foment tensions between communities and states.

Third, we are aware that Russia and Ukraine share the Orthodox faith as a common element of their national identities. The basis of a common religious practice can serve as a platform for dialogue, creating the conditions for a peaceful coexistence in a future that we want to be close and lasting.

Mister President,

Brazil reiterates the call for the de-escalation of hostilities and the resumption of dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. We understand the hesitations on both sides; however, we recall the obligation of all member states, under Article 33 of the UN Charter, to seek the settlement of disputes by peaceful means. We reiterate our commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and to the recognition of the legitimate security concerns of all in the region.

Thank you.