The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution centered on "promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue and tolerance in countering hate speech".
The international body underscored that discrimination directed at individuals based on their religion or belief constitutes an affront to human dignity and hampers the realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The UN reaffirmed member states' responsibilities to prohibit both discrimination and violence rooted in religion or belief, urging the implementation of measures to ensure equal and effective legal safeguarding. It welcomed international, regional, and national initiatives as well as endeavors by religious and other leaders aimed at fostering interreligious and intercultural dialogue.
The resolution notably emphasizes that "all religions are committed to peace," and that interreligious and intercultural dialogue among various faiths, groups, and individuals, particularly religious leaders, can enhance universal value comprehension and awareness.
The UN expressed "deep regret over all instances of violence against individuals based on their religion or belief, as well as against religious symbols, including sacred texts." Furthermore, the organization expressed concern regarding the escalating instances of intolerance driven by religion or belief, which have the potential to cultivate animosity and hostility among people, triggering far-reaching consequences at local, regional, and global levels.
The UN General Assembly emphasized the interconnectedness and mutually reinforcing nature of freedom of religion or belief, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to peaceful assembly, and the right to freedom of association. Member States were urged to "advocate for the advantages of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, appreciation for and acceptance of differences, tolerance, respect for diversity, harmonious coexistence, integration, and reverence for human rights, as a means to counteract the proliferation of hatred," as articulated by the UN General Assembly.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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