UNESCO support sought to stop misuse of Buddha images
In the wake of increasing complaints on the misuse of the Buddha’s image for commercial purposes, the Government has taken the initiative at UNESCO to obtain support from other Buddhist countries to prevent such practices internationally.
Secretary to the Buddha Sasana Ministry D.W. Abeywickrama said yesterday they along with the Foreign Affairs Ministry will initiate a Resolution in the UNESCO calling upon all Governments and commercial organisations to take action against such persons. “The Foreign Ministry has informed us that this question will be discussed at the forthcoming Executive Board Meeting of UNESCO in October this year,” he said.
The Secretary said they will take steps to prevent the misuse of Buddha’s image and Buddhist symbols at national level in collaboration with other ministries and government institutions.
“During the past few months we came across a number of instances where the Buddha’s image was used commercially in a manner that discredits Buddhism.
There is also a case pending in the Supreme Court on the matter. We assure the clergy and all Buddhists that action will be taken against such harmful practices,” he said.
Meanwhile, a group of Buddhist monks yesterday protested against the film Hollywood Buddha in front of the Buddha Sasana Ministry and forcibly entered the Ministry premises.