The Churches and Congregations Act should protect Estonia's security and religious freedom. It does not ban Orthodox Christianity or other religions. Interior Minister Taro says that the amendments should eliminate Russia's influence on Estonian believers.
Taro recalled that President Karis first refused to proclaim the law in April. The president said that the Moscow Patriarchate undermines the security of states. This time too, the president is not proclaiming the law.
The Ministry of the Interior made proposals to the Riigikogu to ensure the law complies with the constitution. The Riigikogu adopted the law with amendments. The law prohibits religious associations from following foreign leaders who pose a threat to Estonia.
Interior Minister Taro disagrees with the president. He says that Estonia must protect believers from Russian influence. Taro says that the Moscow Patriarchate supports Russia's war.
Following the president's new veto, the Ministry of the Interior will consult with the parliamentary legal committee. The Riigikogu may reconsider and adopt the law again.