UNESCO incorporates protection of holy books in draft resolution

Türkiye’s proposal leads to the U.N. General Assembly amending the UNESCO draft resolution to include protection for holy books against hate crimes, with Ambassador Aybet spearheading the initiative

UNESCO has incorporated disrespect for holy books into its draft resolution on hate crimes following Türkiye’s proposal. 

“Under Türkiye’s leadership, we added the (United Nations General Assembly) UNGA resolution declaring crimes against holy books as violations of international law to the UNESCO decision draft,” Ambassador Gulnur Aybet, Ankara’s permanent representative to UNESCO, stated. 

Expressing support for combating all forms of hate crimes, Aybet highlighted the alarming increase in crimes associated with hatred against Islam in recent years.

She underscored the importance of UNESCO aligning its actions with U.N. resolutions on this matter.

The draft resolution, along with the proposed amendments, was accepted, signifying progress in the fight against hate crimes.

“I noted that UNESCO should act in alignment with UN resolutions on this matter. The draft decision was accepted with the amendments we proposed. Onward with the struggle in combating hate crimes,” Aybet emphasized.

In July 2023, the U.N. General Assembly unanimously adopted a Morocco-sponsored resolution condemning acts of violence against religious symbols, holy books, and places of worship as violations of international law.

Source: Newsroom