Statement of IFSW Europe e.V. on Paris attack – JE SUIS CHARLIE

Statement of IFSW Europe e.V. on Paris attack – JE SUIS CHARLIE

It was in deep shock that we saw the news yesterday, January 7th, released by the media, of the terrorist attack to the headquarters of the newspaper Charlie Hebdo in Paris.

This was a barbarian attack that put an end to the most basic human right - the right to life. These are acts that, as social workers, we reject under any circumstances. No reason (be it religious, ideological, political, racial or other) can justify terrifying and criminal acts like this.

Social work is a profession of Human Rights which is based on principles and values that respect human dignity, recognize the right to freedom at all levels including the right to free expression of ideas, in writing, or any other creative field.

IFSW Europe, representing the Social Workers across Europe, deeply regrets the deaths of journalists and other Charlie Hebdo workers, sending heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims.

We express our solidarity with the Parisian people and the whole of France, and particularly the journalistic community.

A word of comfort and strength to our French social worker colleagues and friends at this time of pain, grief and anger. Your work in times of crisis such as this is of paramount importance and extremely valid.

IFSW Europe raises its voice in defense of Democracy and Freedom and joins the movement of France already widespread throughout the world:

JE SUIS CHARLIE

8th January 2015

Cristina Martins, 

President of the IFSW European Region 

[International Federation of Social Workers Europe e.V.]