United Nations Ban on Religious Criticism Approved

27 March 2009

On March 26, the United Nations Human Rights Council approved a resolution to protect religion from criticism.  The proposal, which came from a number of Muslim nations, was opposed by secular, religious, and media groups because they believed it could be used to limit religious freedom of the individual and intimidate some human rights groups. Many Muslim majority support the resolution, saying that religions need to be protected from defamation because it can lead to hatred and discrimination towards believers.  Some nations such as India abstained from voting on the resolution because Islam was the only religion specified in the proposal.  The U.S., currently not a voting member of the council, has condemned the council's direction, claiming it is being guided by nations with the worst human rights records.

As this resolution will influence the United Nations' policy regarding human rights, please pray that the members will gain clarity and understanding of the full impact of this proposal.  Please pray that people around the world will seek to understand religion rather than using as an excuse for discrimination and violence.  Please also pray that any resolution passed will encourage religious freedom and understanding.

For more information, see "UN urged to reject bar on defamation of religion" and "UN body OKs call to curb religious criticism."

 

Last updated 29 November 1999