Where the Most Severe Violence Based on Religion Exists

On August 22, the U.N. marks the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief. It is a day designated by the U.N. for member states to reflect on their efforts to combat intolerance, discrimination and violence against persons based on religion or belief. The day was established as a direct response to the ever-growing issue of violence based on religion or belief, including in their most severe manifestations, international crimes such as crimes against humanity, war crimes and even genocide.