Press Statement by the High Representative
for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
and United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia
17 November 2025, New York
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, expresses his alarm over the recent hateful and polarizing rhetoric by Mr. Milorad Dodik, President of the Alliance of Independent Social Democrats (SNSD) and former member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Such derogatory rhetoric against Bosniaks is incompatible with the principles and values of the United Nations and runs counter to the core mandate of UNAOC, which seeks to advance mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and peaceful coexistence among individuals and communities of diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
The High Representative underscores that inflammatory statements by political figures, particularly in contexts marked by historical sensitivities—risk fueling tensions, undermining social cohesion, and eroding hard-won progress toward peace and reconciliation.
At a time when societies worldwide confront rising hate speech, xenophobia, and identity-based polarization, commitment to upholding the highest standards of responsible public discourse, grounded in respect for human dignity, international law, and the values enshrined in the UN Charter is more essential than ever before.
UNAOC remains ready to support efforts that foster trust, understanding, and unity, and will continue working with all partners to counter hate speech in all its forms.