Estonian lawmakers have advanced a contentious measure targeting religious organizations with foreign affiliations, defying repeated objections from President Alar Karis, who has labeled the proposal unconstitutional. The legislation, which bars groups linked to entities deemed security risks from operating, is perceived as specifically directed at the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC).

The bill was initially approved in April but faced rejection from Karis, who argued it violated constitutional principles. On Wednesday, the Riigikogu (parliament) reinstated the law with a 63-15 vote, forcing Karis to either endorse it or submit it to the Supreme Court for potential annulment.

The measure follows reports that the Moscow Patriarchate supported Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, prompting Estonian authorities to scrutinize religious ties. The Estonian Christian Orthodox Church, previously under Moscow’s jurisdiction, has asserted its neutrality, stating its connections do not pose a threat. Last year, it updated its charter to remove references to the patriarchate, though critics argue this does not fully address concerns.

Interior Minister Lauri Laanemets, who championed the bill, warned of shutting down monasteries that refuse to sever ties and reclassifying the ROC as a terrorist entity. The ROC has denounced the law as discriminatory against its 250,000 followers in Estonia, while Moscow accused Tallinn of “legal nihilism.” In Estonia, approximately 16% of residents identify as Orthodox, with 8% adhering to Lutheranism, and Russian speakers constitute around 27% of the population.

The legislation underscores deepening tensions between Estonian authorities and religious institutions with historical ties to Russia, even as Karis continues to challenge its legal validity.