The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) promptly denounced the terrible incident involving Quran burning in Sweden. This incident has aroused international anger as well as calls for justice and religious tolerance. The OHCHR stressed the need for respect and harmony among many religious communities, and urged immediate action to combat religious intolerance around the world.
The act has been widely condemned as a violation of religious freedom as well as a disturbing display of hatred and racism. The OHCHR voiced deep concern and urged Swedish authorities to conduct an in-depth inquiry and hold those responsible accountable.
In reaction to the Quran burning incident, the OHCHR issued a resolution titled “Confronting Religious Hatred That Incites Discrimination, Hostility, or Violence.” The resolution, which was endorsed by 28 countries, emphasized the importance of holding accountable responsible individuals in line with international human rights manifestoes.
Member nations were asked to develop laws and policies to prevent and prosecute religious xenophobia, thereby underlining the worldwide commitment to combat religious intolerance and respect the rights of people of all faiths.
The Council seeks a verbal update from the High Commissioner at its fifty-fourth session on religious intolerance, relating to its driving forces, fundamental causes, and human rights implications. It also plans an interactive panel discussion to identify motivators and root causes for vandalism of sacred books, worship venues, and religious symbols.