President of GA, Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser on acts of defamation of religions and religious symbols

13 Sep 2012

President of GA, Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser on acts of defamation of religions and religious symbols

United Nations, New York - 12 September 2012

Statement Attributable To The Spokesperson For The President of the General Assembly

On Combating Defamation of Religions and Promoting the Culture of Tolerance

The President of the General Assembly, H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, condemns and deplores in the strongest terms any acts of defamation of religions and religious symbols.

President Al-Nasser wishes to express his serious concern that such acts amount to incitement to hatred and xenophobia, and could lead to international instability.

These acts violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and relevant international instruments.

The President of the General Assembly encourages Member States and all stakeholders to intensify international efforts to enhance dialogue and broaden understanding among civilizations so as to prevent indiscriminate targeting of religions and cultures. While reaffirming the right to freedom of expression, he calls for the observance of obligations in accordance with International Law.