The joint Muslim-Jewish observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day is a beacon of hope at a time when divisions often seem insurmountable. This dedication to fostering partnerships and meaningful dialogue is a strong proof of the strength that lies in unity – said Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatović, supporting the joint Muslim-Jewish commemorative event that is being held today at the Srebrenica Memorial Center in Potočari.
– We are witnessing a disturbing increase in acts of violence, hate speech, discrimination and incitement to hatred based on religion or belief. Mosques, synagogues and other religious places, as well as private houses, were targeted and vandalized. Throughout Europe, the increase in anti-Muslim and anti-Semitic incidents is a reminder of the dark past and a sharp warning about the challenges ahead – Mijatović said in a statement.
as he emphasizes, these acts are contrary to the basic principles of pluralism, respect and openness to which we are all bound, and which were supported by the European Court of Human Rights.
– We must remember our duty to act decisively against hate speech, incitement to religious violence and discrimination. It is our joint responsibility to create conditions for remembering and commemorating the victims of past genocides and fighting against all manifestations of anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim hatred and forms of ethnic or religious intolerance. The commemoration in Potočari is a light in the darkness that I hope will inspire others to continue to join in these important efforts – said Mijatović.
