The UN General Assembly has approved for consideration a draft resolution on the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, intolerance and glorification of Nazism, proposed by Russia in co-authorship with representatives of 50 countries. The draft was supported by representatives of 131 states, 48 abstained, and 3 – Ukraine, the United States and Paulo – voted against, Associated Press reports .

The US representative explained his country's position by saying that the politicization of the resolution would hinder the expression of freedom of speech. "We unequivocally condemn all forms of religious and ethnic intolerance or hatred in our country and around the world. However, due to the excessively narrow framework and politicized nature of the resolution, which imposes unacceptable restrictions on the fundamental principles of freedom of speech, the United States cannot support it," said US representative to the Economic and Social Council Stephanie Amadeo following the vote. Opponents of the resolution also pointed out that Russia could use it to put pressure on its closest neighbors.

The preliminary approved document will be considered at the December plenary session of the UN General Assembly.

US votes against 'anti-Nazi' resolution over freedom of speech