Washington DC, 23 August 2022 (TDI): The World observed International Day commemorating the victims of acts of Violence based on Religion or Belief on 22 August. The purpose of this day is to honor the survivors and victims of religious-based violence.
Historical Overview
In 2019, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) designated 22nd August as the day to commemorate the victims of violence based on Religion or Belief.
The day reinforces the international community’s commitment to justice for survivors of genocide and other atrocities based on religion or ethnicity. It also reflects that protecting religious rights is the duty of the state and every individual.
Additionally, 22nd August also serves as a day of remembrance and action. The international community remembers people who have died just because they lived different lives.
Moreover, the International community expresses gratitude to those who work tirelessly to advocate for the freedom of individuals to practice their culture and religion.
Remarks by UN Secretary-General
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres reiterated his firm solidarity with victims of religious-based violence.
Hate speech continues to fuel violence against vulnerable members of society, including ethnic & religious minorities.
It is essential that all countries, faith leaders and other influential figures condemn all incitement to hatred & violence based on religion or belief.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 22, 2022
In a statement, the Secretary-General emphasized that communities worldwide continue to face intolerance and violence based on religion or belief. He added, that “hate speech, online or offline, continues to fuel violence against vulnerable members of society”.
Moreover, the Secretary-General said that more efforts should be done to examine the conditions that drive intolerance and hate.
Moreover, he emphasized that “initiatives like the call to Action for Human Rights and the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech can be taken for addressing these complex issues.”
The Secretary-General also highlighted that “all states, faith leaders, and other influential actors should condemn incitement to hatred and violence based on religion or belief.”
Further, the Secretary-General said that “only a collective, inclusive, and society-wide effort can result in safe co-existence for all and end this blight on our societies.”
Remarks by Secretary of State of the US
The US Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken observed International Day for victims of religious-based violence. He tweeted that the US stands with those who are targeted or persecuted for their beliefs.
On today’s International Day Commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, we stand with those who have been targeted or persecuted for their beliefs. To those who are still suffering: you are not forgotten, and we continue to fight for you.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) August 22, 2022
Moreover, US state Secretary expressed that the country will continue to fight for those who are still suffering from religious-based violence.
