…Calls for global action against discrimination
The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, has raised alarm over what he described as growing “institutional discrimination” against Muslims around the world, warning that such trends threaten fundamental human rights and social harmony.
In a message issued to mark the ‘International Day to Combat Islamophobia’ yesterday, the UN chief said millions of Muslims across the globe continue to face systemic challenges ranging from discrimination in public institutions to social and economic exclusion.
Guterres noted that Muslim communities are frequently subjected to biased immigration policies, unwarranted surveillance, and racial or religious profiling, practices he said undermine the principles of equality and justice that the international community has pledged to uphold. “Muslims worldwide often face institutional discrimination, socio-economic exclusion, biased immigration policies and unwarranted surveillance and profiling”, he stated.
According to the UN chief, these troubling patterns are being intensified by the spread of anti-Muslim rhetoric, stereotypes and hate speech, which often circulate in political discourse, traditional media and online platforms.
He warned that such rhetoric can escalate beyond words, fueling harassment, discrimination and sometimes violent attacks against Muslim individuals and communities.
Guterres urged governments, civil society groups and global institutions to work together to combat prejudice and protect the rights of people of all faiths. “On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, we must recommit to equality, human rights and dignity for every person, no matter their faith” he said.
The UN established the International Day to Combat Islamophobia to raise awareness about discrimination faced by Muslims and to promote tolerance, inclusion and respect for religious diversity worldwide.
The Secretary-General also called for stronger efforts to promote education, dialogue and policies that counter hate and foster mutual understanding among different religious and cultural communities, stressing that building inclusive societies where everyone feels safe and respected is essential to global peace and stability.
