With almost half of the 47 members not taking part, the United Nations' advisory council on human-rights approved a proposal by Muslim nations Thursday urging passage of laws around the world to protect religion from criticism. The resolution urges states to provide "protection against acts of hatred, discrimination, intimidation and coercion resulting from defamation of religions and incitement to religious hatred in general."
India, which normally votes along with the council's majority of developing Muslim and African nations, abstained in protest at the fact that Islam was the only religion specifically named as deserving protection. A coalition of more than 100 secular and faith groups had called on governments to oppose the resolution, warning that it could lead to accusations of defamation among different faiths.