UN expresses deep worries over rising spate of hate
UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, delivers a press statement to media after a meeting of envoys from more than 20 countries on Afghanistan in Doha, Qatar, 02 May 2023. (Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned against the “alarming” rise of hate in the world.
Guterres said this at the annual Holocaust Memorial Ceremony, which is organized in observance of the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust.
He said the unfortunate event was preceded by thousands of years of discrimination, expulsion, exile, and extermination, including by his home country, Portugal.
The diplomat stressed that the UN is determined to fight against racism and bigotry in all forms.
He called on the international community to condemn all other forms of racism, prejudice and religious bigotry, including anti-Muslim hatred and violence against minority Christian communities.
He said, “In the last several months, we have seen an outburst of antisemitism and anti-Muslim bigotry around the world. Every one of us must resolve to stand up against the forces of hate, discrimination, and division.
For his part, President of the UN General Assembly Dennis Francis said there is an “alarming surge” in hate speech across the world.
He emphasised the need for the world to strive towards a common future that is “safer, free from fear, and characterized by mutual respect, tolerance, and harmony.”
