Concerns over tensions after Easter Sunday attacks: UNHR Chief
41st session of the Human Rights Council
Opening statement by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet
24 June 2019
Mr President,
In this context, I also want to highlight my concerns about violence, and the incitement of violence, on the basis of religion – both in what is now known as the real world, and online. In recent months we have seen Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues and Christian churches attacked by gunmen; and worshippers of many faiths subjected to violent attacks.
In Sri Lanka, I am concerned that the terrorist attacks two months ago have fuelled increasing tensions. The lack of a unified approach between the President and Government regarding key human rights concerns risks adverse impact on the effectiveness of the security forces in ensuring safety and protection for all. I am disturbed by reports of anti-Muslim attacks; recent statements by some religious leaders inciting violence constitute worrying early warning indicators that should be addressed. While some counter-terrorism measures are warranted, the state of emergency should be of minimal duration, and a priority should be given to bringing political, religious and other community leaders together to address root causes of all forms of violence and discrimination. In this context, I express my support to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka for its commendable and courageous role.
In this context, I also want to highlight my concerns about violence, and the incitement of violence, on the basis of religion – both in what is now known as the real world, and online. In recent months we have seen Muslim mosques, Jewish synagogues and Christian churches attacked by gunmen; and worshippers of many faiths subjected to violent attacks.
In Sri Lanka, I am concerned that the terrorist attacks two months ago have fuelled increasing tensions. The lack of a unified approach between the President and Government regarding key human rights concerns risks adverse impact on the effectiveness of the security forces in ensuring safety and protection for all. I am disturbed by reports of anti-Muslim attacks; recent statements by some religious leaders inciting violence constitute worrying early warning indicators that should be addressed. While some counter-terrorism measures are warranted, the state of emergency should be of minimal duration, and a priority should be given to bringing political, religious and other community leaders together to address root causes of all forms of violence and discrimination. In this context, I express my support to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka for its commendable and courageous role.
We must be more vigilant in the face of the hatred and violent extremism which feed off each other. But we need to act both with great urgency and great care. As the new UN Strategy and Action Plan on Hate Speech emphasises, the misuse of excessively broad restrictions on freedom of speech may lead to silencing critics and the intensification of attacks on the press and human rights advocates.
