Further to my post on Olivia's thread below:
ISTANBUL
The International Union for Muslim Scholars (IUMS) has called on non-Muslim countries to ban Islamophobia, following the killing of dozens of people on a deadly attack on two mosques in New Zealand.
"IUMS calls on non-Muslim countries to ban the spread of hatred against Islam and Muslims," IUMS President Ahmed al-Raisouni said in a statement at the conclusion of a 2-day session held in Istanbul on Friday.
I have a better idea. Why don't all countries require all people—citizens, non-citizen residents or visitors—within their jurisdiction, as a prerequisite for being within their jurisdiction, to sign the following pledge:
"Just as I reserve the right to hold and express my opinions on any matter whatsoever, I promise to respect the right of all others to do the same. I renounce unreservedly the use of coercion and violence in the promotion of my opinions."
And make sure their laws reflect that requirement?
This latter shouldn't be difficult or controversial. After all, the UN Declaration of Human Rights says:
Article 18.
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.
Article 19.
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.
Who's on board?