Incidences of blasphemy and religious defamation
occur around the world, often provoking angry,
and sometimes violent reactions from religious
adherents. However, laws prohibiting blasphemy
and religious defamation are heavily criticised as
being against freedom of speech, despite their effect
on race relations. This article highlights the position
of blasphemy and religious defamation according to
International Law, and presents counterarguments
of the main objections to such laws. It also highlights
the issue from the Islamic perspective, and offers an
alternative approach to interpreting human rights.
This article concludes by explaining the need for
human rights and free speech to be interpreted
according to common moral and religious values,
and emphasising the purpose of human rights and
free speech—which should be for the attainment of
justice. In doing so, it is hoped that there will be a better balance in enforcing the right to free speech,
as well as the protection of religious sensitivities.