UN marks International Day for victims of religious violence and persecution

Victims of acts of violence based on religion or belief are commemorated each year on 22 August internationally through a day established by the United Nations.

The observance provides an opportunity to express solidarity with people affected by religious persecution and discrimination and to reaffirm the need to protect every person’s right to manifest their religion or belief freely.

Religious freedom as a fundamental right The United Nations General Assembly designated 22 August as the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief through Resolution A/RES/73/296, adopted in 2019.

The resolution condemns acts of violence directed against people on the basis of their religion or belief and stresses the need to provide support to victims and their families.

Freedom of religion or belief, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of association are interdependent rights enshrined in Articles 18, 19 and 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights .

According to the United Nations , respecting these freedoms helps combat intolerance and discrimination motivated by religion or belief. At…