Vatican diplomat decries hate speech, says it 'cannot claim the protection of liberty' (Holy See Mission)

Archbishop Christophe-Zakhia El-Kassis, the apostolic nuncio and Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations, stated that speech intended to incite hatred or violence does not deserve the protection of liberty. Speaking at a United Nations conference, the diplomat argued that such speech erodes the conditions necessary for genuine freedom to flourish.

El-Kassis said that hate speech directed at individuals or groups based on religion, ethnicity, nationality, or other characteristics contradicts the commandment to love one's neighbor. He noted that these actions poison public discourse, increase division, and often create the conditions for persecution and violence. The Archbishop emphasized that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it carries responsibilities. He stated that the dignity of every person requires a moral rejection of all forms of intolerance and discrimination to maintain peaceful coexistence.

This statement marks the first address from El-Kassis since his appointment as Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations.