Press Statement attributable to
the Spokesperson for the High Representative for
the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
on the terrorist bomb attack on a mosque in Pakistan
New York – 30 January 2023
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, condemns in the strongest terms the heinous terrorist bomb attack on a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan. The cowardly attack killed at least 59 people and injured more than 150 according to the latest reports.
The High Representative stresses that all forms of violence and acts of terror against civilians and religious sites on account of their religion or belief are intolerable and unjustifiable and should be unequivocally condemned. He reiterates that houses of worship are sacred places where worshipers should be able to practice and declare their faith safely and freely.
The High Representative expresses his deep concern at the overall rise in instances of discrimination, intolerance and acts of violence, regardless of the actors, directed against members of many religious and other communities in various parts of the world, including incidents motivated by Islamophobia, Antisemitism and Christianophobia and prejudices against persons of other religions, beliefs, gender or race.
The High Representative calls for mutual respect of all religions and faiths and for fostering a culture of fraternity and peace.
He recalls the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites, developed by UNAOC, and calls on governments and relevant stakeholders to support its implementation. The plan highlights the universality of religious sites as symbols of our shared humanity, history, and traditions.
On behalf of UNAOC, the High Representative conveys his deepest sympathies to the people and Government of Pakistan and expresses his condolences to the victims’ families and wishes the injured a speedy recovery.