United Nations Radio

The United Nations independent expert on freedom of religion or belief has expressed concern about the outcome of a referendum that would prohibit the construction of minarets in Switzerland.

Asma Jahangir

Ms. Asma Jahangir says she regrets the result of the vote on the initiative on Sunday which "amounts to an undue restriction of the freedom to manifest one's religion."

She points out that the ban "constitutes a clear discrimination against members of the Muslim community in Switzerland."

As also stated by the United Nations Human Rights Committee a month ago, she adds, such a ban is contrary to Switzerland's obligations under international human rights law.

Ms Jahangir stresses that the vote is as reminder "that no societies are immune to religious intolerance."

She is urging the Swiss authorities to abide by all international obligations and to take the necessary measures to fully protect the right to freedom of religion or belief of members of the Muslim community.

She is also advocating for educating people about religious diversity to enable societies to adopt an enlightened attitude towards the beliefs of other communities.

Bissera Kostova, United Nations Radio
(duration: 1'06")