Combating intolerance, negative stereotyping, stigmatization, discrimination,
incitement to violence and violence against persons, based on religion or belief
A/RES/72/176
nations, the Amman Declaration on Youth, Peace and Security adopted on 22 August
2015, and the fifth Congress of Leaders of World and 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, 8
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 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; 9
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, and 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 violence, 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.
Calls upon all States to take the following actions, as called for by the
Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, to foster a domestic
environment of religious tolerance, peace and respect by:
(a) Encouraging the creation of collaborative networks to build mutual
understanding, promoting dialogue and inspiring constructive action towards shared
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4/6
A/HRC/22/17/Add.4, appendix.
A/72/381.
17-22992