The UN Human Rights Council voted on Wednesday to denounce recent acts of Koran burning, but many nations chose not to support the resolution out of concern that it would significantly restrict free speech.
Despite widespread condemnation of the desecration of the Muslim sacred book, the vote caused more discord than harmony as Western nations claimed that further discussion could have produced a unanimity of opinion.
A resolution was proposed by Pakistan and other Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) nations after an Iraqi refugee scorched pages of the Koran outside Stockholm’s largest mosque last month, setting off a diplomatic uproar throughout the Muslim world.
With 28 votes in favor, 12 against, and 7 abstentions, the top rights body of the UN supported the resolution.
Despite the vote passing to cheers, there wasn’t much joy in the Geneva chamber.
According to US ambassador Michele Taylor, a consensus could have been established with additional time and free discussion.
“Unfortunately our concerns were not taken seriously,” she said.
“I’m truly heartbroken that this council was unable to speak with a unanimous voice today in condemning what we all agree are deplorable acts of anti-Muslim hatred while also respecting freedom of expression.”
