The SOAR project undertook the task of documenting attacks and related incidents against places of worship in Europe. We aim to raise awareness of the risks and threats that religious sites encounter, to promote and contribute to the Strengthening the security and resilience of at-risk religious sites and communities.
The increase of hate crimes and hate speech against places of worship and communities is undeniable and should be addressed. Furthermore, petty crime such as theft, and repeated vandalism against religious sites further highlight the importance of increased security. The SOAR project aims to address these issues and works towards increasing protection and safeguarding of places for worship across Europe.
19-25 September Incidents
- 20 September: Man assaulted in front of a church. (Germany)
- 20 September: Church theft. (Germany)
- 20 September: Church damage. (Ukraine)
- 20 September: Church damage. (Ukraine)
- 20 September: Church vandalism. (Germany)
- 21 September: Church theft. (Italy)
- 21 September: Cemetery theft. (Hungary)
- 22 September: Protests outside Hindu temple. (UK)
- 23 September: Church theft and arson. (Ukraine)
- 23 September: Church theft. (Hungary)
- 23 September: Church damaged. (Ukraine)
- 23 September: Cemetery theft. (France)
- 23 September: Incitement to religious hatred. (UK)
- 23 September: Disturbance of religious functions in church. (Italy)
- 23-24 September: Church property damaged. (Ukraine)
- 24-25 September: Church theft. (Germany)