Press Statement
Attributable to the Spokesperson of the High Representative for the
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
A call for calm and peace in the “Holy Land”
New York – 26 May 2021
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, recalls his statement of 8 May 2021 in which he expressed his dismay and deep concern over the violent clashes in and around Jerusalem, sacred to the three Abrahamic faiths and revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims. In the same statement, the High Representative also recalled the “UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites: In Unity and Solidarity for Safe Worship” which advocates the sanctity of religious sites and stresses the right of all believers to access the holy sites and to practice their religious rituals and traditions freely, peacefully, and safely without fear or intimidation.
Meanwhile, the High Representative notes that the deadly violence in the past few weeks as well as the recent clashes that persisted despite the ceasefire agreement have led to a spike in antisemitic attacks as well as manifestations of anti-Muslim hatred in many cities around the world.
The High Representative reiterates that such alarming intolerant acts and racial expressions targeting people on account of their religion or belief are unequivocally rejected. He strongly condemns the recent antisemitic attacks against Jewish communities and their sacred sites everywhere, including in the United States. The High-Representative also strongly condemns the surge in mob violence and bigotry against Arabs and Muslims.
The High Representative further notes that violent acts and racial slurs against individuals or communities based on their religion, belief, or ethnicity are an affront to international human rights laws and the values and principles the United Nations uphold. Warning of the dire consequences of radical ideologies and intolerant behaviors if left unchallenged, he emphasizes that we should all stand against the forces of hate everywhere.
The High Representative reiterates his commitment to continue to reject bigotry and all forms of intolerance and hate. He hopes that mutual respect and human solidarity and fraternity would soon prevail to pave the way for a political solution.
Follow/join UNAOC’s Global Call to Action #forSafeWorship.