A/RES/62/154
Welcoming also the progress achieved in the implementation of the Durban
Declaration and Programme of Action,
Underlining the importance of increasing contacts at all levels in order to
deepen dialogue and reinforce understanding among different cultures, religions,
beliefs and civilizations, and welcoming in this regard the Declaration and
Programme of Action adopted by the Ministerial Meeting on Human Rights and
Cultural Diversity of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, held in Tehran on
3 and 4 September 2007, 4
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Reaffirming that discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief constitutes
a violation of human rights and a disavowal of the principles of the Charter,
Convinced that respect for cultural, ethnic, religious and linguistic diversity, as
well as dialogue among and within civilizations, is essential for peace,
understanding and friendship among individuals and people of the different cultures
and nations of the world, while manifestations of cultural prejudice, intolerance and
xenophobia towards people belonging to different cultures, religions and beliefs
generate hatred and violence among peoples and nations throughout the world,
Recognizing the valuable contributions of all religions and beliefs to modern
civilization and the contribution that dialogue among civilizations can make to an
improved awareness and understanding of common values,
Reaffirming the need for all States to continue their national and international
efforts to enhance dialogue and broaden understanding among civilizations,
cultures, religions and beliefs, and emphasizing that States, regional organizations,
non-governmental organizations, religious bodies and the media have an important
role to play in promoting tolerance, respect for and freedom of religion and belief,
Underlining the important role of education in the promotion of tolerance and
the elimination of discrimination based on religion or belief,
Deeply alarmed at the rising trends towards discrimination based on religion
and faith, including in some national policies and laws that stigmatize groups of
people belonging to certain religions and faiths under a variety of pretexts relating
to security and illegal immigration,
Alarmed at the serious instances of intolerance, discrimination and acts of
violence based on religion or belief, intimidation and coercion motivated by
extremism, religious or otherwise, occurring in many parts of the world, in addition
to the negative projection of Islam in the media and the introduction and
enforcement of laws that specifically discriminate against and target Muslims,
particularly Muslim minorities following the events of 11 September 2001, and
threatening the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms,
Noting with concern that defamation of religions could lead to social
disharmony and violations of human rights,
Recalling its resolution 61/164 of 19 December 2006,
1.
Takes note of the report of the Secretary-General 5 and the conclusions
contained therein;
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5
2
A/62/464, annex.
A/62/288.