Introduction
Muslim countries rally behind a UN resolution condemning the burning of the Quran in Sweden. The resolution, adopted by the UN Human Rights Council, aims to denounce the act as a religious hate crime, although several nations cautioned that it might impede freedom of speech. The urgent discussion was initiated by Pakistan on behalf of various countries affected by recent Quran burning incidents.
Resolution and Support
28 out of 47 members of the Council, including China, Ukraine, and most African countries, approved the resolution. It calls for the condemnation of all manifestations of religious hatred, specifically addressing the deliberate desecration of the Quran. Countries are urged to enact legislation to prosecute individuals responsible for such acts. The UN also plans to identify nations lacking such laws and establish a round table of experts to examine the issue.
Controversy and Opposition
During the debates, several Western countries voiced their opposition to blasphemy laws while strongly condemning the Quran burning incidents. The United States, European Union, and United Kingdom called on others to vote against the resolution, citing concerns about its balance and its contradiction of long-held positions on freedom of expression. Latin American countries, including Mexico and Honduras, abstained, expressing the need for further negotiations and consensus-building. Costa Rica voted against the resolution, asserting that criticizing religions does not automatically constitute incitement to violence and discrimination.
Quran Burning Incident in Sweden
The incident that sparked the resolution occurred on June 28 when an Iraqi refugee burned pages of the Quran in front of Stockholm’s largest mosque during the Eid al-Adha holiday. Although the gathering was authorized by Swedish police, an investigation was opened for “agitation against an ethnic group” due to the location of the burning. This incident, along with others, prompted the urgent discussion and subsequent resolution at the UN Human Rights Council.
Conclusion
The adoption of the UN resolution condemning Quran burning as a religious hate act marks a significant global response to recent incidents in Sweden. While Muslim countries support the resolution, concerns over potential limitations on freedom of speech were raised by several nations, particularly those from the Western world. The debate around blasphemy laws and the balance between religious sensitivity and freedom of expression remains an ongoing topic of discussion at international forums.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Amu.TV
Whether writing about complex technical topics or breaking news stories, my writing is always clear, concise, and engaging. My dedication to my craft and passion for storytelling have earned me a reputation as a highly respected article writer.