In response to the tragic shooting incident at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Orange County, Southern California, USA, that resulted in one dead and five wounded, the National Human Rights Commission conveyed its sincere condolence today (the 17th of May) and issued the following statements:
1. The Commission condemned all forms of violence, expressed condolences to the heroic deceased victim, and wished a prompt recovery to those who were wounded in the shooting.
2. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing division and confrontation between different political groups that have long been incited within Taiwan's society, and a call to immediate action. It was the tolerance for words of discrimination and hatred that led to the many conflicts and tragedies we see today.
3. To prevent further tragedy in the future, it is imperative that we educate the Taiwanese people on the values of democracy and human rights while promoting respect and understanding for each other. While protecting freedom of speech, we shall also clarify that each individual owes others the duty to exercise the right to speech without violation of social justice.
4. Considering that Taiwan has already incorporated the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) into domestic legislation, it is the responsibility of the government to enforce Article 20 of the ICCPR and prohibit any abuse of the freedom of speech that constitutes incitement to war, hatred, discrimination, hostility or violence.