The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution denouncing the glorification of neo-Nazism, racism, and other forms of hatred, despite opposition from several Western nations including the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. The resolution, which condemns the persistence and resurgence of neo-Nazism and violent nationalist ideologies based on racial and national prejudice, was adopted by a vote of 111-50, with 14 abstentions.
While not singling out any particular country, the resolution expressed deep concern about the glorification of Nazi figures and movements, including former members of the Waffen SS and other units that fought against the anti-Hitler coalition during World War II. The resolution was sponsored by Russia and supported by 35 other countries.
The US envoy to the UN Economic and Social Council, Lisa Carty, argued that the resolution was not a serious effort to combat Nazism but rather a geopolitical ploy by Russia. In a statement, Carty claimed that Russia was using false accusations of Nazism to justify its war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia has repeatedly highlighted open celebrations of SS veterans and members of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN), who collaborated with Nazi Germany, in present-day Ukraine.
Russian diplomat Grigory Lukyantsev addressed the UN on Friday, stating that marches of neo-Nazis and torchlight processions in honor of those who worked with the Nazis and were complicit in their crimes were taking place in European cities. It is worth noting that Ukraine, one of the countries affected by the resolution, voted against it.
The standing ovation given to Ukrainian SS veteran Yaroslav Hunka by Canada’s parliament during Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s visit in September drew strong condemnation from multiple Jewish groups and countries, including Russia and Poland. The incident led to the resignation of Canada’s House of Commons Speaker Anthony Rota, who claimed to be unaware of Hunka’s past.
The adoption of this resolution at the UN comes as the international community continues to grapple with the rise of extremist ideologies and hate crimes worldwide. It serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and combating these dangerous ideologies in order to uphold human rights, diversity, and the values of peace and tolerance.
The resolution’s passage also highlights the ongoing tension between Russia and Western countries, particularly in light of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. As geopolitical rivalries persist, it is crucial for the international community to find common ground and work together to address the pressing issues of extremism and hatred. Only through collective action and cooperation can progress be made in creating a more inclusive and peaceful world.
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