The NGO Coalition on Human Rights states the recent cases of sacrilege and desecration of temples and mosques where deities and religious texts have been destroyed are “racially motivated hatred.”
In a statement the Coalition said these crimes are a deeply troubling indictment of the environment facing minority communities in Fiji today.
“We believe that these are not isolated incidents. They represent an alarming escalation in religious and racially motivated hatred that threatens the safety, dignity, and cohesion of all communities,” said the statement.
“These crimes by their very nature instil fear – and are intended to instil fear – in the wider communities that share the same religion, ethnicity, and identity.”
The Coalition added the current surge in hate crimes in this country demands not just condemnation, but urgent, robust, and coordinated action from both the Government and society and we strongly call for swift and thorough investigation.
“We call on our national leaders to refrain from divisive language and policies that have been part of the problem. Hate speech leads to hate crimes.”
“We must move swiftly and decisively from condemnation to sustained, joined-up action to address the rising atmosphere of hostility and hate.”
The Coalition added no one should have to live in fear because of who they are or where they come from.
“These abhorrent attacks harm individuals, communities, and Fijian society as a whole.”