Commemorating Victims of Religious Violence
- August 22, 2024
- Posted by: Hub Admin
- Categories: Conflict Resolution, Latest News & Events, Peace-building
By Oge Mordi
The world has never been as polarized as it is today. While the freedom to practice one’s religious belief is a fundamental right, we continue seeing violent acts of intolerance. Attacks on minority communities have increased in number and intensity. The violation of human rights seems disturbingly commonplace, to the extent that most people are now impervious or numb to the horrors.
Freedom of religion or belief, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to peaceful assembly and the right to freedom of association are interdependent, interrelated and mutually reinforcing. They are enshrined in articles 18, 19 and 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Upholding these rights plays an important role in the fight against all forms of intolerance and of discrimination based on religion or belief.
Some of the religious blasphemy cases around the world include countries like Egypt, Palestine, Algeria and also in Nigeria. An instance is the case of Mubarak Bala who received a sentence of 24 years for a comment he made on Facebook that some Muslims found offensive. To this effect, digital platforms must enforce content moderation policies that align with international human rights standards.
The open, constructive and respectful debate of ideas, as well as inter-religious, inter-faith and inter-cultural dialogue, at the local, national, regional and international levels, can play a positive role in combating religious hatred, incitement and violence. Furthermore, the exercise of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and full respect for the freedom to seek, receive and impart information can play a positive role in strengthening democracy and combating religious intolerance. Digital platforms must enforce content moderation policies that align with international human rights standards
Today is an act of remembrance and action. The international community remembers people who have died just because they lived different lives. We honour their bravery. We also celebrate those who work tirelessly to advocate for the freedom of individuals to practice their culture and religion. Despite living in the 21st century, there are parts of the world where people still have no freedom to practice their religious beliefs.
From insidious groups to state governments, everyone uses religion to stoke fear of the ‘other.’ People from different faiths are routinely labelled security threats. Religion becomes an excuse to justify misogyny, and racism — extending to official policies and laws. Religious stigmatisation is often the root cause of discrimination in every sphere of life. Today, as we honour and remember the victims, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where everyone, regardless of their religion or beliefs, can live free from fear, stigma, and persecution.
Today, the world commits to protecting an individual’s right to freedom of religion.