Charlie Hebdo killings in France: Time for mourning, not for scapegoating

Brussels, 7 January 2015 – Following the tragic killings at the office of the newspaper ‘Charlie Hebdo’ in Paris, France, the European Network Against Racism (ENAR) strongly condemns this attack against freedom of expression, a cornerstone of our democracy. Nothing can justify such an attack.

ENAR also warns against backlash and stigmatisation against Muslim communities in France following declarations about the alleged identity of the perpetrators, especially given the current anti-Muslim climate across Europe. Recent examples include arson attacks against mosques in Sweden and France and anti-Islam demonstrations by the Pegida movement in Germany. At this point, no information is available on the perpetrators’ identity and motivations.

ENAR calls for calm, unity and solidarity to defeat hateful and terrorist violence.

For further information, contact:
Georgina Siklossy, Communication and Press Officer
Tel: +32 (0)2 229 35 70 – Mobile: +32 (0)473 49 05 31 – E-mail: georgina@enar-eu.org – Website: www.enar-eu.org

Notes to the editor:
1. The European Network Against Racism (ENAR aisbl) stands up against racism and discrimination and advocates for equality and solidarity for all in Europe. We connect local and national anti-racist NGOs throughout Europe and voice the concerns of ethnic and religious minorities in European and national policy debates.