Norwegian Church Aid would like to reiterate that the Freedom of Speech is a freedom which continuously needs to be protected and safeguarded. At the same time, it is fundamentally important to safeguard this freedom in a responsible manner.
Criticism of Islam, Christianity, or other religions should only be raised through clear communication, and in a respectful manner that allows various actors to voice their views and that protects the dignity of all parties.
The burning of the Quran in March is a provocation and a humiliating act for the millions of people who consider the Quran a holy book. Norwegian Church Aid condemns this act, as many Church organizations throughout the world do.
Norwegian Church Aid also strongly condemns violent reactions to such acts. The attack and killings of innocent people as a response to intolerant acts – such as the attack on the UN compound in Mazar-e-Sharif on 1st April- cannot be accepted.