Kubiš Says Iraqis Want Leaders to Act to Counter Extremism, Promote Tolerance

“Throughout this week, we have heard stories about the destructive impact of sectarian, religious and ethnic violence on many communities in Iraq. No religion, sect, nationality or ethnic group is immune to this disease and threat. Radical ideology and policies of sectarianism, violent extremism and terrorism that are in its most extreme form represented today by Daesh present a serious threat not only to peace and security; but if not curbed, will also be a threat to the unity of Iraq and its people,” the SRSG said.

Mr. Kubiš added: “We cannot allow the inciters of sectarian violence to pull communities into the cycle of violence and reprisals and drive a wedge between various components of Iraqi society. They ultimately serve the interests of terrorism.”

The World Interfaith Harmony Week, marked worldwide on the first week of February, promotes a culture of peace and non-violence, religious and cultural understanding, and emphasises the need for dialogue among different faiths to enhance cooperation and harmony. In activities held in Najaf, Baghdad and Erbil 2-10 February 2016, religious leaders, politicians, academics and civil society groups came together around the theme of interfaith dialogue and harmony as key to ensuring peace and stability.

“These discussions have encouraged all of us to think about ways to promote the principles of tolerance, equality, justice and co-existence,” the SRSG said at the concluding session on Wednesday 10 February 2016 that was held at the Al-Jilani Mosque in Baghdad under the theme: “Bringing It All Together: An Action Plan to Promote and Protect Religious Harmony”.

SRSG Kubiš said that participants over the past week demanded action. They urged legislators to repeal discriminatory legislation and implement inclusive policies as well as to adopt laws clearly criminalising hate speech and propaganda that incites violent extremism. They also called on the Government to create the necessary conditions for the safe and sustainable return of displaced communities as well as ensure State authority is restored to liberated areas as quickly as possible to prevent violence. Participants urged political and religious leaders to promote tolerance, understanding and peaceful coexistence to counter violent doctrines and sectarianism. Civil society, in particular women and youth who shape familial and social norms, and media, which drive public opinion, have a key role to play.

Participants also urged the state to vigorously work for real and profound reforms to ensure good governance and elimination of corruption, inclusive and equitable access to employment opportunities, education, health and other services, effectively functioning economy and social justice. Without such reforms, the burden of the current economic fiscal and social crisis and austerity measures will only further alienate and radicalize many, mainly young people.

“The participants in The World Interfaith Harmony Week sent a strong appeal to the State to implement confidence-building measures that would promote tolerance, equality, justice and respect for diversity thus, working also for national reconciliation, for historic compromise that will preserve unity of Iraq and its people,” the SRSG said.

Political forces are called upon to overcome political divisions that so far prevented progress on these issues, he said, expressing UN readiness to contribute to implementing the recommendations.