The major point was the proposal that there be a decade for Religious Conversations leading to tolerance and peace. It is acknowledged that most of the world conflicts are fueled by religious intolerance. While up to now, religion as such has not been engaged by the UN, it would seem that it cannot be ignored as an important factor at the present time.
Nevertheless, there is some hesitation regarding the proposal mentioned above. It has been observed that some nations may use support of addressing religion at the UN to further promote hard line fundamentalism that ignores human rights. Also, the Philippines is the main State supporter of this proposal causing many to be suspicious that it will be used as a means to obscure the ongoing human rights violations that seem to be state condoned if not state sponsored in the Philippines.
The Catholic Church came off in a poor light at the meeting because it cannot agree to work for the elimination of all forms of discrimination because of the male only clergy policy. This is understood as a human rights failure.
A decision will have to be made by September regarding processing the proposal through proper channels. NGOs that are faith based are asked to give feedback.
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