Explanation of Vote (EOV) by Colombia before the Third Committee

Vote on draft resolution regarding combating defamation of religions (document A/C.3/64/L.27)

New York( 

12 November 2009

COLOMBIA REPRESENTATIVE:  Thank you very much, Chairman.  Chairman
, in the constitutional order of Colombia we recognize the freedom of worship, the right of people to freely profess and practice their religion in individual or collective form.  We recognize all churches and religious organizations before the law and enshrine their equality in this regard.  Colombia is of the view that the media can also contribute to greater understanding between religions, beliefs, cultures and peoples, thus facilitating dialogue between societies and creating an environment that is conducive to the constructive exchange of human experience.  Moreover, Colombia supports interreligious dialogue and cooperation.  
In view of the concept of the defamation of religions, Colombia is of the view that there is no definition in any international instruments allowing us to – and we believe that the manner in which this concept has been enshrined in the resolution could lead to restrictions on the freedom of expression or opinion.  Colombia has abstained from this draft resolution as was the case in the previous session as well, as we are of the view that a number of the concepts contained therein are ambiguous in nature and diffuse in nature.  They can give rise to diverse interpretations and may impose restrictions on the freedom of expression.  Restrictions and constraints which run counter to the full expressions of freedom which are contained in other international instruments and which are, therefore, part of the political constitutional order of Colombia.  Thank you very much.