On the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, the Norwegian Council for Tolerance and Peace stands in solidarity with all individuals and communities worldwide who suffer persecution, discrimination, and violence simply for expressing their faith, conscience, or deeply held convictions.
Freedom of thought, conscience, and religion is a fundamental human right enshrined in international law. Yet, across the globe, intolerance and religious hatred continue to fuel armed conflicts, social division, and widespread human rights violations. Acts of violence directed against religious minorities, places of worship, and peaceful believers undermine the core principles of human dignity and social cohesion.
Building resilient and peaceful societies requires promoting interfaith dialogue, upholding religious freedom, and combating all forms of hatred and extremism. Governments and international institutions must ensure robust legal protections, hold perpetrators accountable, and guarantee equal rights for all individuals regardless of their faith or belief.
The Norwegian Council for Tolerance and Peace reiterates its firm commitment to advocating for peaceful coexistence, defending religious freedom, and supporting victims of faith-based violence. We call on the global community to unite in fostering tolerance, protecting vulnerable communities, and ensuring that diversity of belief remains a pillar of peace rather than a source of conflict.
