UN Forum on Minority issues, Geneva, 2013 I The only instrument we can rely on is the Georgian legislation and international support. But In the beginning of November this year the Interior Ministry of Georgia has taken a lead in fighting blasphemy4. This amendment to Georgia's civil code, addresses anything from desecrating religious institutions and symbols to publicly offending the feelings of the faithful. The law has been introduced as an instrument to protect the .minorities from aggression. We agree on Draft Recommendations 23 that State have to protect minorities against religious hatred, incitement to religious discrimination and hostility. But no Blasphemy Ban or even Hate Speech Criminalization can ensure] any protection especially in a society of immature democracy, where this will be only used against freedom of speech and expression. We therefore want to use the opportunity and to urge this Forum to call on the government of Georgia: a) To withdraw the so called Blasphemy Law from parliament and to consider the threats and negative consequences of the legislation. b) to prioritize the awareness raising and education as an important mean to increase tolerance and nondiscrimination in Georgian society Thank you 4 Georgia's Civil Code 169.1