Explanation of Vote (EOV) by Albania 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

ALBANIAN REPRESENTATIVE:  Thank you, Mr. Chairman.  Albania abstain
ed from this resolution, though we would have liked to support it.  We regret that despite our active engagement in the Informals within the OIC group, we were not able to address some issues of major concern for us, such as, for example, our concern with the attempts to associate defamation of religions with racial discrimination.  I should say from the very outset that we do recognize some added value in the aims of this resolution, meant to minimize unnecessary conflicts within and amongst different societies – respecting each others’ religion and beliefs is an important contribution to a better understanding to building better communication links and to foster closer ties within societies.  
Albania has a society where three major religious communities have always lived in perfect harmony, respect and full understanding.  This lies in the very fundamentals of our society.  Challenging this record of long peaceful and respectful coexistence equals to putting in danger social cohesion.  This is why, although we do not recognize in our legislation the concept of defamation of religions, the Albanian society observes longstanding unwritten rule in always respecting each others’ religious sensitivities.  This applies also to the behavior of the media which has notably contributed in a peaceful coexistence and an ever-absence of any conflict of any kind between religious communities.  
Having said that, I wish to underline that Albania fully respects the freedom of expression.  A free and independent media and an open society are fundamental elements of building a healthy and functioning democracy.  This last is the irreversible and nonnegotiable choice Albanians have made.  
Mr. Chairman, we are very sensitive towards those individuals and communities alike who are facing prejudices and discrimination as consequence of their belonging to any given religion.  Their freedom of practicing religion in private and in public should be guaranteed.  We express our disappointment that we were not able to reach common language and, therefore, a consensual resolution.  We will continue to engage genuinely in finding a common language among opposition groups in the future, as we truly believe that the real value of such a resolution rests in being accepted by all.  Thank you.