: Full statement here
Thank you Mr vice President,
Considering that the promotion and protection of human rights is a matter of priority for the international community, The Vienna Declaration and Program of Action emphasize the responsibilities of all States, to develop and encourage respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, without distinction of race, gender, language or religion
However, we regret to that we are still witnessing flagrant disregard for the sanctity in conflict-affected areas. For instance, Since December 2019, many of the Christians in the Gaza Strip aspire to travel to visit the birthplace of Christ in Bethlehem, where Israel put many obstacles, preventing those who do not meet their conditions from traveling and practicing their religious rituals.
Besides, as part of the The Qatar–Saudi Arabia diplomatic conflict, Saudi Arabia put many restrictions on Qatari nationals affecting their right to practice religious rituals (such as Al-Haj), in clear violation of the right of freedom of religion and freedom of movement, which had negative impacts on economic and property rights of this population.
Mr. President, the alarming assault on freedom of religion in the Middle East is a flagrant violation of human rights. We urge the Council to call on all parties to safeguard their populations’ full right to freedom of access to places of worship and exert all the efforts to create an environment that respects and facilitate the access to all religions and beliefs, and ensure the safety and depoliticization of the places of worship.
IRDG and Geneva Council for Rights and Liberties is calling on the Human Rights Council and its member states to:
-Put pressure on all the conflicting parties to respect the freedom of access to holy lands and solve the conflict through diplomatic channels, to drop the blockade and neutralize the civilians from the effects of their policies.
Thank you
