World organizations react to rise in anti-Islam trends worldwide on International Day Against Islamophobia
On March 15, the world observes the International Day Against Islamophobia, a day officially recognized by the United Nations to raise awareness about the growing issue of Islamophobia and to promote tolerance, understanding, and respect for all people, regardless of their faith.
According to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), stronger efforts are needed to combat intolerance against Muslims. Commenting on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Chair-in-Office Elina Valtonen emphasized the shared responsibility to reject hate and ensure safety for all, regardless of religion. She noted that intolerance is not only individual but also structural, fueled by anti-Muslim rhetoric in politics and media.
Maria Telalian, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, urged leaders to condemn such prejudice, noting its severe impact on Muslim women and girls. Anti-Muslim hate speech online worsens the situation, threatening civil society efforts, she remarked.
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) calls for urgent action against online anti-Muslim hatred on the UN International Day to Combat Islamophobia. Highlighting a surge in hate crimes, they demand social media platforms take responsibility by improving content moderation, prohibiting monetization of hate, and engaging with Muslim communities for effective solutions.
Australian Human Rights leaders emphasized the urgent need to address rising anti-Muslim prejudice. They condemned Islamophobia’s harmful impact on society and called for collective action to ensure safety, dignity, and respect for all Australians, urging support for initiatives like the National Anti-Racism Framework.
The UN observed the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on Friday, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemning the alarming rise in anti-Muslim bigotry. In remarks delivered by Chief of Staff Courtenay Rattray, Guterres highlighted the discrimination, exclusion, and violence Muslims face, especially during Ramadan. He noted that these attacks are part of a broader issue of rising extremism and intolerance against vulnerable communities.
Established by the UNGA on March 15, 2022, the day aims to raise awareness of Islamophobia and promote global commitment to combat discrimination against Muslims. Guterres emphasized the need to protect human rights and called on governments to safeguard religious freedom, address hate speech online, and foster social cohesion. He urged a collective effort to reject xenophobia and build inclusive societies.
