Australian Muslim Leaders Urge Immediate Action Against Rising Islamophobia

Australian Muslim Leaders Urge Immediate Action Against Rising Islamophobia
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Muslim leaders in Australia have urged the federal government to take immediate and concrete steps to address rising Islamophobia and repair strained relations between the Muslim community and broader society.

According to SBS Arabic, Aftab Malik, Australia’s Special Envoy on Islamophobia, warned in a recent report that the issue has not been given sufficient attention and that the situation has reached a “critical” level for Muslims across the country.

Malik outlined 54 recommendations aimed at tackling discrimination, which he said were inspired by consultations with Muslim communities. He stressed that the proposals are intended to recognize and address grievances rather than seek retaliation.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded by pledging to “carefully” review the recommendations, signaling the government’s recognition of the growing urgency of the matter.

Muslim organizations and experts, however, emphasized the need for swift action. They called on the government to not only adopt stronger measures against Islamophobia but also to amend the legal definition of terrorism, which they argue has unfairly stigmatized Muslims and reinforced negative stereotypes.

Community leaders have long warned that Islamophobia in Australia manifests in multiple forms, from workplace discrimination and hate speech to targeted violence. Recent surveys show a rise in reports of anti-Muslim abuse, particularly against women wearing visible religious attire.