I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who tragically lost their lives in this act of violence. Besides showing the fragility of life, this incident serves as a reminder of the need for increased awareness within our communities, especially in the online realm. As an Erasmus Mundus exchange student at Charles University, I had the privilege of participating in an academic programme that focused on understanding the impact of social media platforms. The recent tragedy has flagged significant concerns regarding the role and responsibility of social media platforms in preventing such events. Various news outlets and online media sources have highlighted that the shooter had openly shared his intentions on social media platforms, yet no concrete action was taken. Unfortunately, recent developments in encryption technology for direct messenger applications, intended to protect user privacy, have inadvertently created additional obstacles in identifying and addressing extremist ideologies online that leads to incidents like this and others including the alarming threat of online child predators. This unintended consequence has left a large portion of the online community vulnerable. While it is important to address genuine concerns regarding privacy, it is equally crucial to ensure that adequate monitoring and improved intervention strategies are in place across social media platforms to prevent future tragedies. During these sorrowful moments, it is crucial for us as a community to unite and provide support to those affected. It is also a time for deep reflection on the collective actions we can take to ensure a safer future. This unfortunate incident should serve as a catalyst for advocating stronger measures in social media governance, aiming to safeguard and uphold the safety of our society.
Charles University informs about the current situation and thanks for the expressions of support Charles University (CU) held a memorial service today (Dec. 22) in front of the main entrance to the Carolinum building at Ovocný trh in Prague, honoring the victims of the shooting at the Faculty of Arts of Charles University. Charles University's leadership including rector Milena Králíčková, dean of the Faculty of Arts Eva Lehečková, the leadership of the Faculty of Arts, and representatives of the Czech Rectors' Conference, laid wreaths at the memorial site. Many other public figures participated in this memorial service, including the Prime Minister Petr Fiala, ministers of the Czech government, ambassadors, members of the academic community, and the general public. The leadership of the Faculty of Arts has declared a dean's holiday until January 2, 2024. The Charles University Endowment Fund has launched a collection to support the families of the victims and also faculty, staff, and students affected by the shooting at the Faculty of Arts. Charles University greatly appreciates the support that victims receive from Czech and foreign institutions, companies, and individuals through the Endowment Fund. The fund's collection currently exceeds 16 million CZK (over $700 000), with more contributions promised. The use of these funds will be coordinated with the leadership of the Faculty of Arts. Thank you all! Today at 7:30 p.m., an ecumenical service for the victims of the shooting at the Faculty of Arts of the Charles University will take place in the Church of the Holy Salvator (Křížovnická 4) in Prague. Ecumenical prayer led by Msgr. prof. Tomáš Halík. On Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in the Cathedral of St. He welcomes the Prague Castle to hold a requiem for the victims of the shooting. The event is organized by the Prague Archbishopric and the Castle. On Saturday, December 23, 2023, at 3 p.m., it will take place in the church of St. Martina ve zdi (Martinská 8, Prague) to hold a moment of silence for the victims of the shooting at the Faculty of Arts of the Charles University. The leadership of Charles University and the Faculty of Arts are currently addressing a large number of suggestions and inquiries related to the situation. Even with enormous efforts to respond promptly, quick reactions cannot be guaranteed at this time. We ask everyone, especially the media, to approach the topic of death and the families of the deceased with sensitivity and to give them the necessary peace in which they can mourn. Thank you. We keep the families of the deceased and injured in our thoughts. Leadership of Charles University and the Faculty of Arts You can read the full statement here: https://lnkd.in/eAE6WANv
