UN General Assembly
2008

International Criminal Court is there to support us in that task, and we must support the Court — all of us, openly and unconditionally. A wider acceptance of the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice will also strengthen the international legal order. We also need to speak about freedom of expression and belief. The debate on that issue often leads to misunderstandings, incomprehension and fears that national traditions may be swept aside. We can all be proud of our cultures and traditions, of the things that distinguish us from others. The challenge for every Government is to affirm its people’s cultural and religious values and customs, and at the same time to build bridges with the rest of the world — bridges that enable people, organizations and religions to meet and draw closer. Finding the right balance is not easy, but it is essential. Governments are there for everyone — for men and women; for people of all backgrounds and all religious convictions; for monks, priests, rabbis and imams; and equally for those who do not believe in a