He said leading politicians and senior religious figures have a “particularly crucial role to play” in speaking out clearly against disrespect and intolerance. “They should also make it clear that violence cannot be justified by prior provocation, whether real or perceived”, he added. The High Commissioner stressed that limiting free speech or expression to any degree must remain “as a matter of fundamental principle” an exception, especially given that laws limiting speech are “often misused” by authoritarian governments.
But some acts of speech constitute an incitement to violence and discriminatory action, he added.
Numerous acts of violence, terror and mass atrocity, have targeted people based on their religious beliefs, including inside places of worship.
Although international law is clear on the issue, national courts must determine each case in a manner “that is consistent with the guardrails that international humanitarian law provides”, he said. “My second point is this: advocacy of hatred that constitutes incitement to violence, discrimination and hostility should be prohibited in every State”, Turk told delegates to the Council in Geneva.
He gave examples of abusing Muslim women who wear a headscarf, sneering at people with disabilities, or making false claims against migrants and minorities, noting that “all such hate speech is similar” stemming from the idea that some are less deserving than others.
The tide of hate speech is being powered by social media, and increasing discord and polarization, he warned.
Next, he called for rising hate speech to be addressed through dialogue, education, greater awareness, and interfaith or community engagement.
He highlighted the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech, as a key support tool for governments to counter it.
He urged countries to redouble their efforts to implement the Plan.
Faced with the increasing weaponization of religious differences for political advantage, he said societies must not take the bait.
“We must not allow ourselves to be reeled in and become instrumentalized by these merchants of chaos for political gain – these provocateurs who deliberately seek out ways to divide us.”
His overriding goal in addressing the debate was to stress the “profound enrichment” provided by diversity, existential views “and our thoughts and beliefs”.
The UN rights chief said all societies need to become “magnets of respect, dialogue and cooperation among different peoples, as has been achieved by multiple civilizations in the past.”
In the realm of international relations, the diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh have always…
Peace in the Middle East has become several shades more elusive in the wake of…
The Pakistan Army is a disciplined institution where appointments and postings follow an established procedure.…
Every year, the global maritime community comes together to celebrate World Maritime Day, a day…
Dengue and chikungunya are becoming serious health concerns in Karachi, especially in the city's slum…
Azad Jammu & Kashmir is a land of mountains & rivers and its breathtaking scenic…
Leave a Comment