On the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the alarming increase in anti-Muslim bigotry, urging governments to safeguard religious freedom. He noted that this trend is part of a broader rise in intolerance and discrimination against vulnerable groups, particularly in light of recent global conflicts. Guterres advocated for the need to combat hate speech online and emphasized societal unity against xenophobia and discrimination. He was supported by UN Under-Secretary-General Miguel Angel Moratinos, who pointed out institutional discrimination faced by Muslims, rooted in media bias and social prejudice.
Guterres stated, 'We are witnessing a disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry. From racial profiling and discriminatory policies that violate human rights and dignity to outright violence against individuals and places of worship, the UN chief articulated the severity of the issue. He emphasized that this is part of a wider scourge of intolerance, extremist ideologies, and attacks against religious groups and vulnerable populations.'
The UN chief called for governments to foster social cohesion and protect religious freedom. 'Online platforms must curb hate speech and harassment, and we must all speak out against bigotry, xenophobia and discrimination,' he concluded.
Moratinos commented on the systemic issues faced by Muslims, noting, 'Institutional discrimination and socioeconomic restrictions have led to stigmatisation and unwarranted racial profiling of Muslims, worsened by biased media representations.'
On the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Guterres urged collective action: 'Let's work together to uphold equality, human rights, and dignity for all, resisting the tide of hatred and prejudice.'
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