Minority rights-based approaches to the protection and promotion of the rights of religious minorities 2013, para. 75
Paragraph
Paragraph text
Special consideration should be given to facilitating the right of reply for religious minorities. This should be regardless of the principle of the independence of the media, and regardless of whether it concerns the private or public media. When religious minority characteristics, affiliations or values are represented stereotypically in the media, the right of reply would allow the religious minorities concerned to challenge singular stereotypes and open up the debate. This is necessary not only for minority rights, but also for respect, harmony and coexistence in society at large. It can also ease community relations and promote understanding at the national and international levels. It can prevent misunderstandings from escalating and from racist political groups from exploiting such stereotypes.