The Maldives has voted for the resolution condemning acts of religious hatred, including the desecration of the Holy Quran, at the 53th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
During the debate, Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the UN Dr. Asim Ahmed condemned the abhorrent act and said that acts of Islamophobia undermine all efforts to uphold the values of tolerance. He also called for global solidarity to promote peace and coexistence.
During its session, the UNHRC adopted the resolution condemning acts of religious hatred, including the desecration of the Holy Quran. The resolution entitled Countering Religious Hatred Constituting Incitement to Discrimination, Hostility or Violence was adopted with 28 votes in favour, 12 against and 7 abstentions.
The resolution underscored the need for holding those responsible to account in a manner consistent with obligations of the member states arising from international human rights law. It also called upon the member states to adopt national laws, policies and law enforcement frameworks that address, prevent and prosecute acts and advocacy of religious hatred that constitute incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, and to take immediate steps to ensure accountability.
Additionally, UNHRC requested the High Commissioner to present at its 54th session an oral update on the various drivers, root causes and human rights impacts of religious hatred constituting incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence. It also decided to organise an interactive panel discussion of experts at its 55th session to identify drivers and root-causes and human rights impacts of desecration of sacred books, and places of worship as well as religious symbols as a manifestation of religious hatred which could constitute incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence.