Statement Attributable to
the Spokesperson of the High Representative for the
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
on the attack on a mosque in Kabul – Afghanistan
New York – 18 August, 2022
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, unequivocally condemns the heinous attack on a mosque in Kabul, Afghanistan yesterday during the evening prayers. The attack resulted in killing and injuring scores of worshippers including children.
The High Representative expresses his alarm at the recurrence of such deplorable attacks perpetrated by extremists and terrorist groups since August 2021 targeting places of worship, schools and civilian targets in several provinces in Afghanistan.
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. He reiterates that houses of worship are sacred places where worshipers should be able to practice their faith safely and freely.
He recalls the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites, which was developed by UNAOC, and calls on all governments and relevant stakeholders to support the implementation of the plan to guarantee the safety of holy sites and worshipers.
On behalf of UNAOC, the High Representative expresses his condolences to the victims’ families and wishes the injured a speedy recovery.