UN prevented Erdan from displaying pro-Hitler posts by UNRWA teacher

• Published date: 05 October 2021
• Author: TOVAH LAZAROFF
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

"I see it as a very dangerous precedent here, preventing my freedom of expression, preventing my freedom of speech, and hiding the truth from the UN," Erdan said during his public speech to the UNGA.

He had meant to display the post during a discussion on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees so that he could illustrate his concern about the problem of incitement in UNRWA schools.

"I am shocked because I brought here with me a photo of a UNRWA teacher's post glorifying the most horrific mass murderer in history, Adolf Hitler. Unfortunately, shockingly, I was prevented from bringing in this photo in order to share this proof with the other distinguished ambassadors here," Erdan said.

Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan decrying the UN's prevention of his display of pro-Hitler posts by an UNRWA teacher, October 4, 2021.

A UN spokesperson explained to The Jerusalem Post that UN protocol prevents ambassadors from using props when delivering speeches.

Heads of state, who speak during the high-level opening sessions that take place every September, however, can do so, the spokesperson added.

On Monday the UNGA heard a report from UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini about the challenges of servicing 5.7 million Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem.

Lazzarini also addressed allegations of incitement and antisemitism in some of its classrooms and in some social media posts by its staff.

"I am deeply proud of our education system and its resources. UNRWA uses host country curricula in line with best practices in refugee education," Lazzarini said.

The schools teach their pupils about human rights, conflict resolution, tolerance, gender equality and democracy, he said.

"Let's be clear," Lazzarini said, "UNRWA has a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech, incitement, discrimination, hostility or violence.

"I am, however, acutely aware that we are operating in a highly divided and emotionally charged environment where zero risk does not exist," he...