Joint statement of Personal Representatives of OSCE Chairman-in-Office on Tolerance and Non-discrimination on recent public burnings of the Quran

SKOPJE/VIENNA, 31 January 2023 - Rabbi Andrew Baker, Personal Representative on Combating Anti-Semitism, Associate Professor Dr. Regina Polak, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination, also focusing on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians and Members of Other Religions, and Ambassador Dr. Ismail Hakki Musa, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims made the following statement:

“Recent public burnings of the Quran have drawn international attention and condemnation. We add our voices to others who have rightly criticized these acts, intended as an expression of hatred toward Muslims but an offence to all who believe in tolerance, pluralism, and respect for diversity.

As the Personal Representatives of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, we know that collective security also depends on adherence to human rights and democratic values. Hateful acts such as these incite hostility toward Muslims and could lead to greater conflict and even violence. Thus, we remind OSCE participating States that cultural and religious diversity enriches our individual lives and our respective societies. This diversity should be protected and promoted and more dedicated resources and efforts are needed to promote tolerance and non-discrimination to foster a stronger sense of security in our participating States.

We would also like to commend the relevant authorities for their strong public rejection and condemnation of these manifestations of racism, xenophobia, discrimination and intolerance, including against Muslims while continuing to respect freedom of expression.”