Combating intolerance, negative stereotyping, stigmatization, discrimination, incitement to violence and violence against persons, based on religion or belief A/RES/71/195 Traditional Religions, held in Astana on 10 and 11 June 2015, and taking note of the initiative of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and its outcome document, the Rabat Plan of Action on the prohibition of advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, adopted in Rabat on 5 October 2012, 7 Taking note with appreciation of the continuation of the organization of workshops and meetings within the framework of the Istanbul Process and the promotion of effective implementation of Human Rights Council resolution 16/18 to counter global violence, religious discrimination and intolerance, in particular the recent sixth implementation meeting of the Process, hosted by Singapore, on 20 and 21 July 2016, 1. Takes note of the report of the Secretary-General; 8 2. Expresses deep concern at the continued serious instances of derogatory stereotyping, negative profiling and stigmatization of persons based on their religion or belief, as well as programmes and agendas pursued by extremist individuals, organizations and groups aimed at creating and perpetuating negative stereotypes about religious groups, in particular when condoned by Governments; 3. Expresses concern that the number of incidents of religious intolerance, discrimination and related violence, as well as of negative stereotyping of individuals on the basis of religion or belief, continues to rise around the world, which may have serious implications at the national, regional and international levels, condemns, in this context, any advocacy of religious hatred against individuals that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, and urges States to take effective measures, as set forth in the present resolution and consistent with their obligations under international human rights law, to address and combat such incidents; 4. Condemns any advocacy of religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, whether it involves the use of print, audiovisual or electronic media or any other means; 5. Recognizes that the open public debate of ideas, as well as interreligious, interfaith and intercultural dialogue, at the local, national and international levels, can be among the best protections against religious intolerance and can play a positive role in strengthening democracy and combating religious hatred, a nd expresses its conviction that a continuing dialogue on these issues can help to overcome existing misperceptions; 6. Also recognizes the strong need for global awareness about the possible serious implications of incitement to discrimination and violen ce, which may have serious implications at the national, regional and international levels, and urges all Member States to make renewed efforts to develop educational systems that promote all human rights and fundamental freedoms that enhance tolerance for religious and cultural diversity, which is fundamental to promoting tolerant, peaceful and harmonious multicultural societies; _______________ 7 8 4/6 A/HRC/22/17/Add.4, appendix. A/71/369.