Moscow, February 3, 2011
The Bishops Council of the Moscow Patriarchate has asked for easier access to state archives for identifying all people oppressed by the Bolsheviks for their beliefs.
"The Church calls on statesmen and public figures to support its study and commemoration of repression victims. In particular, the Church appeals to the heads of institutions controlling archive documents for assisting in the speedy identification of everyone who suffered in the years of persecution," the Council said.
"It is necessary to continue the dialogue with the state on possible legislative and administrative measures in the provision of access by Church representatives to the archives, with respect for the lawful demand for secrecy of private life," the Council said.
