Joint Message of OSCE CiO’s Personal Representatives on International Day Commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

VIENNA, 22 August 2022 - As we mark the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief , the continued Russian aggression against Ukraine bring more death, new refugees, and the destruction of civilian sites, including houses of worship and religious shrines and memorials. Christians, Muslims, Jews, those of other religious beliefs, and those with no religious belief are among the victims. The religious leaders in Russia willingly or under coercion provide a rationale for this unprovoked war. Those who would speak out or even remain silent do so at their own peril.

With great concern, we observe religious persecution taking place in other parts of the OSCE area and beyond. We mourn the loss of life and the suffering of people due to the innumerable acts of violence based on or justified by religion or belief.

Last year, we noted that the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing restrictions led to a proliferation of online intolerance. While those restrictions have now been lifted and life returns to normal, online hate is still growing. Much of it is directed at Jews, Muslims, and communities of believers, especially vulnerable minorities. Many who promote these messages of antisemitism and intolerance are motivated by their own extremist religious ideologies. However, they are not confined to the virtual world. They also serve to encourage and inspire numerous physical attacks.

OSCE participating States are obliged to respect the freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief for all without distinction of race, sex, gender, ethnicity, language, or religion, as part of the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of protecting and promoting peace and security. They should strive to promote a climate of tolerance, inclusion, and respect for diversity. Acts of violence, including hate speech and hate crimes based on religion or belief, must be swiftly and loudly condemned. Victims must be supported. Perpetrators must be held accountable and punished.

Participating States should avail themselves of all resources available to meet their commitments. As the Personal Representatives of the Chairperson-in-Office for tolerance issues, we are ready to assist.

Rabbi Andrew Baker, Personal Representative on Combating Anti-Semitism

Ambassador İsmail Hakkı Musa, Personal Representative on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims

Professor Regina Polak, Personal Representative on Combating Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination, also focusing on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians and Members of Other Religions