A resolution could pass in the U.N., creating even more opportunities to persecute Christians worldwide.
The Defamation of Religions Resolution, which has been introduced to the U.N. every year since 1998, "seeks to criminalize words or actions that are deemed to be against a particular religion, namely Islam," according to Open Doors USA. The resolution will probably be brought up this year in November or December.
While the resolution was previously called the "Defamation of Islam," those introducing it changed the name to make it appear more general and make people believe it would apply to all religions.
"What's interesting about this resolution is that it is being introduced by the Organization of Islamic Conference," says Open Doors Advocacy Program Manager, Lindsey Vessey. "I think that should tell you right up front that this is a group of 57 states with majority or significant Muslim populations that are the real people behind the resolution."
In fact, in the text, Islam is the only religion protected.
Vessey, said this could worsen the plight of Christians, especially in countries with Muslim majorities. While the resolution is non-binding and countries can chose whether or not to accept it, some countries, like Pakistan, passed it into national law.
This allows Muslims in the country to simply accuse Christians of blasphemy, and they could be arrested without any evidence. Once placed in prison, they could receive a life sentence or even the death penalty.
"Many Christians living in these countries are already severely impacted by restricted laws--especially those living under strict sharia law," said Open Doors President/CEO Carl Moeller. "From the right to worship freely to the ability to share the Gospel, the Defamation of Religions Resolution threatens to justify local laws that already marginalize Christians. As Americans, we have enjoyed a long tradition of religious liberty. The Defamation of Religions Resolution is a blow against religious freedom."
Ultimately, it could make sharing the Gospel blasphemous, and Christians in these countries could face arrest for sharing truths contradicting Islam.
But there's still hope, now more than ever.
"Last year was the very first year that the combined number of votes against the resolution and ... countries who abstained from voting totaled more than those who voted in favor of it," Vessey said.
Because of this, they are launching their "Freedom to Believe" Campaign to raise awareness in the U.N. of the number of people opposed to this resolution.
Vessey said Open Doors plans to put heavy pressure on the countries who did not vote and those who voted "no." Through writing letters to countries, they will inform them of what the resolution really means.
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