If some Islamic nations get their way, the UN may put forth a treaty to ban blasphemy. The AP reports:
Islamic nations are mounting a campaign for an international treaty to protect religious symbols and beliefs from mockery - essentially a ban on blasphemy that would put them on a collision course with free speech laws in the West.
I should say so.
If ratified in countries that enshrine freedom of expression as a fundamental right, such a treaty would require them to limit free speech if it risks seriously offending religious believers.
One wonders if Jewish or Christian religious beliefs would be as rigorously defended as Islamic beliefs. Since Jews and Christians don't riot when offended, somehow I doubt it.
And what would be the punishment for violating the treaty?
The U.S. is quietly fighting this proposed treaty, according to the AP. I would hope so.


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