Published on 12:00 AM, August 27, 2019
Adoption of UN resolution concerning religion-based violence
Compiled by Law Desk (Source: UN.ORG)
Religion-based violence is a cause for grave concern across the world. From the conflicts between Sunni and Shia Muslims to the persecution of Muslim Rohingyas in Myanmar and violent mass shootings in places of worship, international harmony is plagued by the sharp rise in violence based on religious beliefs. Against such a backdrop, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the resolution titled “International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief” on 28 May, 2019. On 22 August, the day was observed for the first time ever.
The UN resolution reaffirms the establishment of freedom of thought, conscience and religion, which have been enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It also brings into particular attention the States’ responsibility to protect the rights of the religious minorities to perform their religious activities freely.
In observance of the day, the Secretary General has drawn attention to two new initiatives set up to overcome the threat of violence based on religion and belief: a UN strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech, and a Plan of Action to safeguard religious sites. The Secretary General emphasised on the need for dialogue and urged that the best way to overcome hate is to embrace diversity and protect human rights.
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