Vienna, 22 August 2024 – Religious Hate Crimes – On the occasion of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, the focus is on the increasing number of hate crimes in the OSCE region. This issue was highlighted in a statement by the Personal Representatives of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, stressing the immediate action required to combat growing religious intolerance and discrimination.
In their pointed message, the representatives expressed “deep concern at the alarming level of hate crimes and acts of violence based on religion or belief in the OSCE region.” This claim is not unfounded. The statement highlighted a worrying increase in intolerance towards Muslims, noting that “the high and increasing number of reported incidents of intolerance, violence and discrimination against Muslims” testifies to the deep-rooted roots of anti-Muslim hatred exacerbated by xenophobia in several countries.
Since the series of Hamas terrorist attacks in October 2023, anti-Semitic sentiments have increased. The repercussions of these incidents, combined with ongoing tensions in the Middle East, have created a sense of fear among communities residing in various OSCE nations. The representatives noted that these conditions have forced individuals to “hide their Jewish identity in public,” a stark indicator of the current threats to individual freedom and security.
It is clear that religious hate crimes are not limited to any group. “Acts of intolerance against Christians and members of other religions or beliefs continue unabated,” the statement said, highlighting the link between these actions and extreme nationalism, racism and prejudice. These intersections pose dangers for various social groups, such as women, immigrants, Roma and Sinti communities.
The role of social media is a major contributor to this worrying trend in religious hate crimes. The representatives warned that social media platforms play a key role in “promoting and amplifying these acts and expressions of intolerance and xenophobia,” often inciting violence through the dissemination of false information. They stressed that while freedom of expression is fundamental to democracy, it must not be used as a shield for unchecked hatred that targets the physical and emotional well-being of individuals.
The consequences of uncontrolled violence based on religion or belief extend beyond immediate physical threats. These acts “risk the erosion of our fundamental democratic values and principles,” which poses a long-term threat to social cohesion, peaceful coexistence and societal security.
In their concluding remarks, the OSCE representatives issued a resounding call to action. They encouraged participating States to redouble their efforts to safeguard freedom of religion and belief, urging the implementation of “comprehensive measures to effectively report, record and prosecute hate crimes.” Furthermore, they stressed the need for legislative and enforcement measures alongside appropriate support for victims, when they experience religious hate crimes.
The statement emphasizes that “freedom of religion or belief is specifically recognized as an integral part of the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of security,” reinforcing its vital role in combating discrimination and prejudice. The representatives expressed their readiness to assist participating States with the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in promoting respect for freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief.
This joint call was echoed by Rabbi Andrew Baker, Ambassador Evren Dağdelen Akgün, and Dr. Regina Polak, each representing a goal focused on combating various facets of intolerance and discrimination. Their unified position is a crucial reminder of the continued efforts required to ensure a safe and inclusive future for all religions and beliefs in the OSCE region.
source link eu news
