September 17th, 2024
On the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed on March 15, UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the urgent need for global unity to combat anti-Muslim hate and bigotry, especially during the Holy Month of Ramadan, a period marked by reflection and solidarity for nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide.
In the spirit of Ramadan
Guterres stressed the significance of the Holy Month as a time for community and upliftment, contrasting sharply with the anguish and fear experienced by many Muslims due to the rising tide of Islamophobia. He made a poignant call for the silencing of guns in conflict areas such as Gaza and Sudan, urging political, religious, and community leaders globally to advocate for peace.
A rich heritage under threat
The Secretary-General reminded the audience of Islam's extensive contributions to culture, philosophy, scholarship, and science throughout history, from the works of Avicenna and Al-Khwarizmi to Averroes. He lamented the ignorance and denial of these contributions by those propagating Islamophobia.
The rising tide of hate
Guterres delineated the various forms of Islamophobia, including discrimination, socio-economic exclusion, and unfair policies, which violate the fundamental human right to dignity. He also criticised the use of social media as a tool for spreading hate speech and extremist ideologies, emphasising the real-world violence this can fuel.
A united stand against hatred
The Secretary-General called for a collective effort to root out anti-Muslim bigotry, urging political leaders to foster social cohesion and governments to condemn inflammatory discourse. He highlighted the role of digital platforms in moderating hateful content and the importance of interfaith dialogue led by religious leaders.
Renewing commitment to shared humanity
On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Guterres invited everyone to renew their commitment to equality, dignity, human rights, and respect. He advocated for embracing diversity as a strength and standing in solidarity with Muslims worldwide, not just during Ramadan but every day, to build inclusive societies where all can live in harmony.