Algeria proposes initiative at UN General Assembly to limit free speech, protect Islam's image
Algeria is proposing an initiative under the auspices of the United Nations that would limit freedom of expression in order to prevent the stigmatizing and denigrating of Islam.
Algeria's Foreign Minister Mourad Medelci said a global response is needed following the recent violent demonstrations provoked by a U.S.-produced video which mocks Muslims and the Prophet Muhammad.
Dozens of world leaders raised the issue of free speech versus denigration of religion at this year's ministerial meeting of the U.N. General Assembly.
Malaysia's foreign minister Anifah Aman told the assembly on Saturday that attacks on Islam shouldn't be protected by freedom of speech laws.
"Why is it when Muslims are stigmatized and defamed, it is defended as freedom of expression?" he asked.
