International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence based on Religion or Belief: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU

On the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence based on Religion or Belief, the European Union pays tribute to all victims of discrimination, intolerance, persecution, hatred, dehumanisation or violence because of their religion or belief.

Extremism, authoritarianism, terrorism, and conflict-driven hatred are yet not eradicated. Too many people across the world, especially from religious minorities, face attacks to their communities and see their human rights violated due to their actual or perceived faith.

We strongly believe and support the principle upon which all individuals have the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief; and to manifest or change their religion or belief, without risk of discrimination, persecution or violence.

The European Union condemns the criminalisation of apostasy, and the abuse of blasphemy laws when they violate the right to freedom of religion or belief. These laws are a dangerous catalyst of religious hatred and incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence.

We recall that all states have an obligation to guarantee human rights protection, and to exercise due diligence to prevent, investigate and punish acts of violence against persons based on their religion or belief.

The international community must unite in fighting against discrimination, hatred and violence based on religion or belief. We must promote a culture of religious tolerance, respect for diversity and mutual understanding.

Every individual regardless of whether they manifest a religion or belief, are entitled to full respect for their human rights. The EU will continue to safeguard this principle and promote its implementation everywhere.