Freedom of Speech, Cartoon Violence Addressed at WCC Assembly

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, but the violence surrounding the cartoons depicting the Muslim Prophet Muhammad shows a need for caution when addressing religion, the head of the World Council of Churches said on the opening day of the 9th Assembly.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Council’s ninth Assembly, in Porto Alegre, Brazil, WCC General Secretary Samuel Kobia said freedom of speech should not be used to “humiliate people’s values and dignity,” or else it “devalues the foundation it is based on.”

"Violent reactions, as well as justifying these cartoons as an expression of freedom of speech, continue to put fuel on the fire,” he stated.