In a move underscoring its commitment to defending religious freedom for all, the United Kingdom abstained from voting on a UN resolution aimed at measures to combat Islamophobia. The draft resolution, tabled by Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), contained elements that the UK felt imposed limits exceeding international law on freedom of expression.
Protecting Religious Debate Within Bounds
Addressing the UN General Assembly, UK Ambassador James Kariuki stated,
“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.”
Concerns Over Operative Paragraph 2
The UK took issue with Operative Paragraph 2 of the resolution, which it viewed as curtailing legitimate critique and debate around religious ideas beyond acceptable parameters.
“We must take care not to introduce processes for blasphemy laws by the back door,”
Kariuki cautioned.
Balancing Religious Freedom and Expression
While condemning all forms of hatred, discrimination, and incitement to violence against any religious group, the UK maintained its stance on protecting freedom of expression alongside freedom of religion or belief.
“People must be free to practice religion; be free from persecution for the practice of their religion; but also be free to criticize religion if they choose,” the ambassador asserted.
Call for Inclusive Approach
Another key concern was the resolution’s narrow focus on anti-Muslim hatred, despite rising intolerance impacting many other religious communities worldwide. The UK called for an inclusive approach, highlighting Operative Paragraph 3’s proposal for a UN mechanism exclusively addressing challenges faced by Muslims.
Avoiding Perception of Condoning Hatred
“We are concerned by the resolution’s narrow focus on one religious group,”
Kariuki stated, adding that the UK’s position should not be misconstrued as condoning anti-Muslim hatred or diminishing solidarity with its victims.
Efforts for More Inclusive Language Rejected
The UK expressed disappointment that efforts by multiple countries to find more inclusive, human rights-compliant language were rejected. Moving forward, it hopes to collaborate in protecting all people from religious hatred and intolerance while upholding principles of international law on religious freedom and free expression.
Reaffirming Domestic Commitments
Despite abstaining, the UK reaffirmed its commitment as a multi-faith democracy to combat intolerance through funding for anti-Muslim hatred victim support, security for mosques and Jewish communities, and addressing internal challenges.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & James Kariuki.
Footnote: This article was written by a new trainee journalist. The article is factual and breaking news however, the style and depth is limited. I am sure the trainee will improve with more practice. Thank you for your understanding.
