Global Efforts to Protect Women of Religious Minorities Highlighted at Online Event Marking International Day for Victims of Religious Violence
On August 22, 2024, - Online event to observe the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief. This annual event, established by UN General Assembly Resolution 73/296 in 2019, aims to raise awareness about religious discrimination and violence, with this year’s focus on atrocities against women.
The event featured panel discussions with international representatives dedicated to religious freedom. Notable speakers included Ryan Brown, President of Open Doors US; Simin Fahandej from the Bahá’í International Community's Geneva office; Parwiz Karimi, President of Hazara Community UK; Lopa Banerjee, Head of the Civil Society Division at UN Women; and Elisa Chavez, Human Rights Officer at Stefanus Alliance International.
During the event, Dr. Zsuzsanna Horváth, Hungary's Permanent Representative to the UN, highlighted Hungary's dedication to safeguarding the rights of women from religious minorities, both within their own communities and in relation to the broader society.
She highlighted the Hungary Helps Program, which supports vulnerable communities by addressing the specific needs of women and girls. These initiatives focus on healthcare, protection from violence, and economic empowerment, particularly in crisis situations.
Hungary Helps projects play a crucial role in improving the living conditions and security of women in regions like Africa and the Middle East. For example, in Mali, a women’s center supports victims of rape, female genital mutilation, and child marriage. In Erbil, Iraq, a safe home provides support for Yazidi women and their children recovering from the trauma of ISIS terror.
A notable initiative is the CREATResili project in Kosovo, launched in 2024, which empowers marginalized women through training. Co-funded by the Creative Europe program, this project helps women in Kosovo become self-reliant and resilient, reflecting a broader commitment to fostering environments where women can thrive and contribute to a just and prosperous society.
