R.P.Ts URGES BROAD DISCUSSION ON MATTER OF UNIVERSAL INTRODUCTION OF QR-CODES
Interfax-Religiia, 26 November 2021
The Russian Orthodox Church (RPTs) thinks that the idea of the universal introduction of QR [Quick Response] codes, which has evoked a substantial reaction within Russian society, demands very serious and detailed discussion, taking into account all possible objections and concerns of people.
The head of the synodal Department for Relations of Church with Society and News Media, Vladimir Legoids, called attention on a broadcast of radio Vera to the fact that within society two topics are often mixed together—vaccination and the introduction of QR-codes.
"These are two very different topics, although they both are connected with the attempt to combat the pandemic," he said. Whereas vaccination impacts the immediate health of a person, his organism, the introduction and use of QR-codes pertains to the sphere of exercise of human rights, for example, to freedom of movement, personal privacy, etc.
Speaking of vaccination, the representative of the church emphasized that this matter does not have a religious dimension. As regards attempts of some opponents of vaccination to support their position by appealing to the Revelation of St. John the Divine, in Legoida's opinion such argumentation is dubious.
As regards the idea of the universal introduction of QR barcodes, Legoida thinks that this matter demands very serious and detailed discussion, taking into account all possible objections and concerns of people.
In particular, he recalls that Orthodox believers have expressed great concern that they may be selectively admitted into a church. The church's representative said that there is a notion in society that the introduction of QR-codes is not an end in itself but only one of the currently available methods of combating the coronavirus pandemic; but "widespread does not mean best."
"This method has a downside connected with human rights and with the management of great masses of people. In the 'Brave New World' all of this requires serious reconsideration and legislative changes. And, undoubtedly, public and religious organizations should take an active part in the discussion of these matters," Legoida concludes. (tr. by PDS, posted 27 November 2021)
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