Geneva, March 8, 2024, Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has strongly condemned the alarming rise in attacks targeting places of worship and the desecration of holy books, actions that often stem from prejudiced attitudes, misconceptions, and distorted narratives.
In his address at the Human Rights Council focused on combating religious hatred, which fuels discrimination, hostility, and violence, Türk emphasized the imperative of identifying effective measures that states and other stakeholders can implement to address discrimination based on religion or belief. He expressed deep concern regarding the mistreatment of immigrants and the deliberate targeting of religious or belief-based minorities for political gain.
Furthermore, Türk elucidated that his office is intensifying its efforts to uphold its obligations in safeguarding human rights, in alignment with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. This commitment underscores the UN's unwavering dedication to promoting tolerance, understanding, and respect for religious diversity, as integral components of the global pursuit of peace and justice.