The Sultanate of Oman called for an early containment of the phenomenon of hate speech and religious intolerance, through taking collective and preventive measures and by working on criminalising the public desecration of sacred books and symbols as well as places of worship for all people and nations.
This came in a statement by Idris bin Abdul Rahman al Khanjari, Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations and International organisations in Geneva, through their participation in the discussion panel about religious hatred organised by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva during the 55 th session of the Human Rights Council.
Al Khanjari stated, "The desecration of holy books, places of worship and religious symbols are considered criminal acts, and have intentional goals and are not random or accidental. Regardless of the intention of the parties behind these acts, regardless of their multiple forms and methods, it still remains a criminal act and a violation of the right of others to freedom of religion and belief."
"Their consequences extend to others, fuel feelings of hatred and incite violence between members of the same community," he added, noting that the weakness of awareness level and the absence of deterrent rules, in addition to the divisive sectarian rhetoric, misunderstanding and intolerance are among the main reasons that cause religious hatred.
He explained that secularism and digital diffusion are a reality and a means that facilitated the spread of these actions and ideas on a wider scale.
Al Khanjari confirmed that the Sultanate of Oman expresses its readiness to participate actively in spreading the culture of tolerance and peace in all international dialogue forums, especially during the commemoration of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
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