Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at UN General
Assembly on UNGA resolution "Measures to combat
Islamophobia".
Hatred on the basis of religion or belief, including anti-Muslim
hatred, antisemitism and the persecution of Christians, is
deplorable. We condemn incitement to discrimination, hostility or
violence wherever it occurs.
The UK is a proud multi-ethnic, multi-faith democracy. However,
we recognise the challenges we face, and seek to
address these issues. We are funding a national
organisation to support victims of anti-Muslim hatred, as well as
protective security programmes for mosques, and schemes helping
to keep the Jewish community safe.
Defending freedom of religion or belief for all, and
combating intolerance against all, is a UK
priority. Therefore it is with regret that there were
elements of this resolution the UK could not support – and, for
that reason, we abstained.
In the UK, we have a proud tradition of religious freedom
alongside the freedom to critique ideas and teachings of
religions.
OP2 of this resolution imposes limits on freedom of expression
that go beyond the parameters of international law. We agree that
people should not burn holy books or express religious
intolerance, and that such acts can be done to incite
religious hatred. But we disagree with the strong implication
that such acts always incite hatred.
We believe that free speech is important. We must take care not
to introduce processes for blasphemy laws by the back door.
People must be free to practice religion; be free from
persecution for the practice of their religion; but also be free
to criticise religion if they choose.
While we have seen an unacceptable rise in anti-Muslim hatred,
globally many people of other beliefs or religions also face
discrimination. We are concerned by the resolution’s narrow
focus on one religious group.
OP3 mandates a UN mechanism to address problems faced by one
specific religious community when those of other religions or
beliefs do not have equivalent mechanisms.
Mr President, we thank Pakistan and the OIC for their engagement,
but are disappointed that efforts by a range of countries to find
more inclusive and human rights-compliant language were not taken
on board.
The UK’s position should not be inferred as condoning anti-Muslim
hatred or diminishing our solidarity with those who experience it
– quite the opposite – it is based on commitment to principles of
international law and to treat individuals of all religions or
beliefs equally.
Going forward, we hope to work together to protect all people
from religious hatred and intolerance, and to uphold freedom of
religion or belief, and freedom of expression.
