The proposal by 57 governments, which are grouped in the Organisation of Islamic Conference, came as the outcry continues in the Muslim world over the publication of sketches relating to Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).
"Since the controversy over the cartoons, certain governments have expressed the wish to include a reference to the protection of particular values in the resolution" that would create a new UN Human Rights Council, said UN spokeswoman Marie Heuze.
The world body's member states are locked in talks on setting up the Council, which would replace the UN Human Rights Commission--a forum that has come under increasing criticism for failing to spotlight abuses.
According to the text of the Muslim countries' proposal, the new body should strive to "prevent instances of intolerance, discrimination, incitement of hatred and violence arising from any actions against religions, prophets and beliefs which threaten the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms".
The proposal also says that "defamation of religions and prophets is inconsistent with the right to freedom of expression" and that states, organisations and the media have a "responsibility in promoting tolerance and respect for religious and cultural values".
The move is likely to complicate efforts to build consensus by the end of this week among all UN members on setting up the council, because other governments see the proposal as 'out of step' with a broader accord to create the new body, officials said.
The UN Human Rights Commission, set up in 1948, starts what is expected to be its last annual six-week session next month.
The 53-nation commission, whose membership rotates among UN member states, has been criticised for routinely granting slots to governments that allegedly sit on it to stifle criticism.
Under current plans, the Human Rights Council would meet year-round and have more powers to point the finger at governments.
Switzerland has played a key role in trying to get the council off the ground, and on Sunday Foreign Minister Micheline Calmy-Rey said that linking the two issues could endanger those efforts. She said she, instead, favoured a separate UN resolution on respect for religions.