I think we may have discussed this recently, perhaps with someone else.
There are few (if any) local or international laws enforced on IRC, and none that would apply to the types of things people are allowed to speak about. A channel is at the complete mercy of its operators and their tyranny, and may permit or deny -any- discussion at their sole discression.
If a channel operator is racist, expect hate speech to be tolerated. If a channel operator holds different values than you, expect your values to be mocked and ignored. There is not a thing you can do about it, except hope that another channel operator (of THAT channel) defends your views. They likely don't, so just /part that channel.
If you are on DALnet or a similar network where channels are owned, you might try finding the FOUNDER of that channel, usually by typing /chanserv INFO #the_channel or /msg ChanServ INFO #the_channel. Once you have the founder's name, type /memoserv SEND The_Founder Your_complaint. or /msg MemoServ SEND The_Founder Your_complaint. Assuming you have a valid complaint, the founder of the channel might decide to do something about it... but probably wont.
Again, IRC is an unmoderated and self regulated world. Some people are jerks, and they will get away with it. Just stick to your beliefs and move along.
One tip is to keep your beliefs to yourself... nobody likes a missionary.
- Raccoon