Islamabad, 19 December 2023 (WAI): In a historic move, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly has adopted a resolution co-sponsored by Pakistan and the Philippines to foster interreligious and intercultural dialogue to promote a culture of peace. The resolution, initiated in 2004, underscores the importance of responsibly exercising the right to freedom of expression and emphasizes the need for special considerations.
Central to the resolution is recognizing the significance and respect for “religious symbols,” acknowledging their role in fostering mutual understanding among diverse communities. It firmly asserts that violence can never be a justifiable or acceptable response to acts of intolerance and explicitly states that violence should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group.
This unanimous endorsement by the General Assembly holds profound significance against the backdrop of a worrisome surge in religious intolerance and racism, particularly the alarming rise of Islamophobia worldwide. The resolution is a global commitment to combatting these issues and sends a powerful message of international solidarity and cooperation.
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Pakistan, a vital proponent of the resolution, has expressed its dedication to leading ongoing efforts in advancing interreligious and intercultural dialogue. The country aims to champion understanding, cooperation, and the values of peaceful coexistence and interfaith and cultural harmony on the global stage.
This resolution marks a milestone in pursuing a more harmonious world and reflects the international community’s collective commitment to addressing the pressing challenges posed by religious intolerance. As the world faces increasing complexities, adopting this resolution reaffirms nations’ shared responsibility to work collaboratively toward fostering a culture of peace and understanding among diverse communities.
