The Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) welcomed today the adoption of the resolution by the Human Rights Council on the Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression and opinion which has mandated the Special Rapporteur to report on the abuse of the freedom of expression. In a press statement issued here today, the OIC said "It attaches great importance to freedom of expression and opinion. It believes that the right to freedom of expression forms the bedrock for the exercise of all fundamental rights. However, it firmly believes that rights carry with them certain responsibilities. These should not be abused to achieve negative objectives. Insults and defamation of religions and holy books can not be justified on the pretext of freedom of expression. They undermine the principles and purposes of the UN Charter to promote friendly relations amongst nations." --MORE
