Condemning deadly attack on Quebec City Mosque, OSCE/ODIHR Director Link supports leaders’ calls for inclusion and security for all communities

WARSAW, 31 January 2017 – Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), today joined Canadian and international leaders in condemning Sunday’s attack on a Quebec City mosque and offering condolences to the families of the victims. In his statement, he supported the calls by those leaders to ensure inclusion and security for members of all communities.

“All communities – religious or otherwise – have to be confident that the authorities in their countries are doing everything in their power to promote and ensure their security – to ensure security for all,” the ODIHR Director said. “I welcome and echo the statements by political leaders of their commitment to that security, as well as their stress on inclusion as vital to making that commitment work.”

“The specific references to the need to protect the right to freedom of religion should remind us all that the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms is integral to the security of communities, countries and the OSCE region in general,” he added.

Media reports describe the suspect in the attack, which left six worshippers dead and another eight wounded, as well-known to people who monitor far-right groups in Quebec. They say he was inspired by far-right nationalist politicians and frequently commented negatively on sites speaking about immigration and Islam.

“This terrible crime underlines that all leaders have a responsibility not just to refrain from, but to actively counter the kind of racist, nationalistic rhetoric that appears to have played a role in this case,” Director Link said. “Canada’s Prime Minister has described this as a ‘terrorist’ attack, and this should remind us all of the need to counter all forms of violent extremism and radicalization that may lead to terrorism.”