“Every person should be able to practice their religion without fear or intimidation of any kind.” UN human rights chief condemns wave of anti-Semitic attacks in Europe and North America Human rights
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed deep concern over a series of anti-Semitic attacks in recent days against synagogues and Jewish communities in Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada and the United States.
In his official statement on Wednesday, Turk stressed that the “monstrous” attacks on religious sites and communities require a decisive response from states.
Call for prompt investigation
The High Commissioner called on the authorities of the countries where these attacks took place, take “meaningful steps” to promptly, fully and transparently investigate incidents and bring those responsible to justice. According to him, impunity in such cases creates a dangerous precedent and increases the atmosphere of fear.
The right to freedom of religion is under threat
Turk emphasized that every person should be able to practice their religion “without fear or any intimidation.” He noted that the growth of anti-Semitic manifestations in different regions of the world requires increased attention and the adoption of systemic measures to protect vulnerable communities.