NEW YORK: The UN marked the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on Friday, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemning “a disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry” worldwide.
In remarks delivered to the UN General Assembly by his Chief of Staff Courtenay Rattray, Guterres expressed concern over the increasing discrimination, exclusion and violence faced by Muslims globally, particularly as they observe the holy month of Ramadan.
“From racial profiling and discriminatory policies that violate human rights, to outright violence against individuals and places of worship,” Guterres underscored that these attacks on Muslims are part of a broader “scourge” of rising extremism, intolerance and violence against religious groups and other vulnerable communities.
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia was established by the UNGA on March 15, 2022.
The resolution, introduced by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, was adopted to raise awareness of the growing global issue of Islamophobia.
The day aims to address the rise in anti-Muslim sentiment and foster a global commitment to combat discrimination, exclusion and violence against Muslims.
The secretary-general’s message also emphasized the importance of safeguarding human rights, asserting that attacks on any group threaten the rights and freedoms of all.
“We must reject and eradicate bigotry in all its forms,” the statement urged, calling for governments to protect religious freedom, foster social cohesion, and address the rise of hate speech and harassment on digital platforms.
“We must all speak out against xenophobia, discrimination, and bigotry,” Guterres added, urging a global commitment to building inclusive societies where people can live peacefully regardless of faith.
UN chief slams ‘disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry’ worldwide
https://arab.news/93r6t
UN chief slams ‘disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry’ worldwide
- International Day to Combat Islamophobia marked annually on March 15
- Day established by General Assembly in 2022 to raise awareness of global issue
EU warns against Trump’s tariffs threat over Greenland
- “Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral,” they wrote
- “Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty“
BRUSSELS: European Union leaders on Saturday warned against US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on European countries until he has achieved his purchase of Greenland.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa, president of the European Council, issued the joint statement hours after Trump threatened multiple European nations with tariffs of up to 25 percent.
“Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral,” they wrote in a post on social media.
“Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty,” they added.
The statement came days after Danish and Greenlandic officials held talks in Washington over Trump’s bid to acquire the territory, without reaching agreement.
“The EU stands in full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland,” said the EU statement.
“Dialogue remains essential, and we are committed to building on the process begun already last week between the Kingdom of Denmark and the US.”
