Antisemitic Attacks Must Be Investigated, UN Human Rights Council Urges
Summary
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has urged authorities in Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States to promptly and fully investigate recent antisemitic attacks targeting synagogues and Jewish institutions. The statement emphasizes the need for justice and for individuals to practice their faith without fear.
What changed
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has issued a statement condemning recent antisemitic attacks in Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada, and the United States. The statement urges the authorities in these countries to conduct prompt and thorough investigations into these attacks targeting synagogues and Jewish institutions, and to bring those responsible to justice. The High Commissioner stressed the fundamental right of all individuals to practice their faith without fear or intimidation.
This statement serves as a call to action for law enforcement and government agencies in the affected countries. Compliance officers should be aware of this international call for investigation and ensure that any internal policies or procedures related to hate crimes or discrimination are being adequately enforced. While this is a non-binding statement, it highlights international expectations regarding the investigation and prosecution of religiously motivated attacks and may inform future policy or enforcement actions.
What to do next
- Ensure prompt and thorough investigation of any antisemitic attacks.
- Bring perpetrators of antisemitic attacks to justice.
- Uphold the right of individuals to practice their faith without fear.
Source document (simplified)
Press releases Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Antisemitic attacks must be fully investigated - Türk
18 March 2026
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I am appalled by the recent antisemitic attacks that have targeted synagogues and Jewish institutions in Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada and the United States of America.
It is crucial that the authorities take meaningful steps to promptly and fully investigate these abhorrent attacks and bring those responsible to justice.
Everyone must be able to practice their faith without fear or intimidation of any kind.
For more information and media requests, please contact:
In Geneva
Ravina Shamdasani: +41 22 917 9169 / [email protected]
Jeremy Laurence: +41 22 917 9383 / [email protected]
In Nairobi
Seif Magango : +254 78834 3897 / [email protected]
WhatsApp
X @UNHumanRights
Facebook unitednationshumanrights
Instagram @unitednationshumanrights
Tags
- Antisemitism
- Discrimination and intolerance Back to top
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