Solidarity gathering reflecting on the terriorist attacks in Paris

We were all shocked today by the terroristic attack in Paris. Two gunmen attacked the offices of the French magazine Charlie Hebdo in Paris, by killing 12 people including the editor and cartoonists. It was a well-organized attack, the three suspects have not been caught yet at this moment. 

This evening at the Luxembourg Square (in front of the European Parliament) as in other European cities, a solidarity gathering was organized in memory of the victims of the terrorist attack in Paris. The square was filled with hundreds of people from all different backgrounds, religions or beliefs, who stayed in silence to reflect and/or pray.  

With friends from "For the Voiceless" who organized a solidarity events for the victim of terrorism in Iraq and Syria on December 2014, I distributed free candles. This was very much appreciated. 

My most heartful thoughts go to the victims and their families. We must be realistic to the big threat of barbaric religious fundamentalism that are destroying fundamental freedoms, our security, rule of law and democracy. We must not condemn or blame islam for these criminal acts. We must all stand together, regardless of the religious origins and beliefs, in solidarity and protect the dignity of the people.