Would you choose to exist in a world where your thoughts and words carry the death penalty? However, millions of individuals living in countries with blasphemy laws face this grim reality. Blasphemy refers to speech that insults or contradicts the doctrines of a religion. The Center of Inquiry has designated September 30 as International Blasphemy Rights Day since 2009 to bring attention to the inhumane blasphemy laws enforced in over 69 countries.
The background of International Blasphemy Rights Day
On September 30, 2005, the Danish newspaper “Jyllands-Posten” published twelve editorial caricatures depicting Muhammad, the founder of Islam. The action, justified by the newspaper as an attempt to criticize Islamic censorship, angered prominent Danish-Muslim groups. A group of Danish imams, led by Ahmed Akkari, traveled to the Middle East to rally support for the cause following the failure of a court case and the absence of government backing.
Ahmed Akkari sought sufficient support from Muslim-majority nations to initiate a movement against the Danish government after months of hysteria and fabrications. The protests were widespread and had significant international repercussions. The bombings of Danish embassies around the globe resulted in the deaths of over 100 people, including protestors.
This shocking act of religious intolerance jolted the world and sparked numerous discussions regarding free speech. Ronald A. Lindsay, CEO of the Center for Inquiry, was presented with the notion of honoring the right to free speech on the anniversary of the Danish article years after the matter had been resolved. International Blasphemy Rights Day has been observed annually on September 30 since 2009.
It is essential to clarify the purpose of this day. International Day for the Protection of Blasphemy Rights is observed in defense of free speech, not in support of denigrating a specific religious belief. Blasphemy laws are a violation of our collective freedom. International Day for the Protection of Blasphemy Rights is observed to reaffirm our belief that no religion or sect is immune to criticism.
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5 Blasphemy Laws That Will Stun You
Sharia law prohibits blasphemy in Afghanistan, and the perpetrator can be executed by hanging.
Trespassing a burial ground or defiling a place of worship in Pakistan is punishable by imprisonment.
In Iran’s Islamic theocracy, criticizing the Islamic government or offending Islam is punishable by death.
In Jordan, insulting any of the Prophets is punishable by up to three years in prison.
In Qatar, blasphemy is punishable by up to seven years in prison.
INTERNATIONAL BLASPHEMY RIGHTS DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 30 | Saturday |
| 2024 | September 30 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 30 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 30 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 30 | Thursday |
