FreeMuslim Issues Statement to Mark International Day Commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

FreeMuslim Issues Statement to Mark International Day Commemorating Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief
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On the occasion of the International Day Commemorating Victims of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, the World Organization for the Elimination of Violence “FreeMuslim” (affiliated with Grand Ayatollah Sayed Sadiq Hosseini Shirazi World Foundation), issued the following statement:

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

On August 23, we stand in solidarity with all victims of violence based on religion or belief.

The World Organization for the Elimination of Violence affirms that violence, in all its forms, fundamentally contradicts the noble human and religious values that call for mercy, justice, and mutual respect.

We strongly reject all forms of extremism and hate speech that misuse religion to justify violence or persecution. No religion can be a pretext for harming another human being. True religion is a source of peace, security, and coexistence—not a tool for division or bloodshed.

We regard this day as an opportunity to renew our commitment to promoting a culture of non-violence and tolerance, and we reject anything that divides people based on their beliefs.

We call on governments, religious and faith-based institutions, and civil society to intensify efforts to safeguard freedom of religion and belief and to guarantee every individual’s right to practice their faith in peace and security. We also urge concrete action to address the roots of hatred and discrimination, and to encourage dialogue and understanding among followers of different religions and beliefs.

On this day, we remember the victims, honor their painful memory, and renew our pledge to work for a world where all people—regardless of religious, sectarian, or ideological affiliation—can live in peace and security.