NEW YORK: Islamophobia is one of the most alarming manifestations of hate speech, according to the head of the Muslim World League, who was speaking at the UN on Friday.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the MWL secretary-general, was the keynote speaker for the International Day to Combat Islamophobia at the UN General Assembly.
The event provided a platform for Al-Issa to highlight the growing concerns surrounding Islamophobia and its broader implications for global coexistence.
During his visit, Al-Issa also held bilateral talks with the President of the UN General Assembly Philemon Yang, discussing the rising trend of anti-Muslim sentiment and a range of other issues of mutual concern.
Al-Issa also held bilateral talks with the President of the UN General Assembly Philemon Yang. (Supplied)
In his address, Al-Issa warned that the consequences of Islamophobia extend beyond the Muslim community to fuel extremism and social division. He stressed that such prejudice poses a fundamental challenge to inclusive citizenship, which is enshrined in democratic constitutions and international human rights principles.
He noted a concerning rise in discrimination against Muslims, including incidents of marginalization, barriers to integration, and denial of basic rights.
Exploring the root causes of Islamophobia, Al-Issa emphasized that the nearly 2 billion Muslims worldwide represent the true essence of Islam and actively engage with the world’s religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity.
He referenced the Qur’anic verse that calls for human understanding and unity, stating that Islam’s message is one of peace and coexistence.
Al-Issa also underscored that Islamophobia is not merely a religious issue but a global humanitarian challenge that threatens social harmony, asserting that defending Islam in this context was synonymous with defending universal human values.
He denounced political rhetoric that exploits fear for electoral gains and condemned media platforms that propagate divisive narratives.
Al-Issa called for an end to policies that sow fear and division, rejecting attempts to link terrorism with Islam. He also criticized extremists who manipulate religion for their own agendas, emphasizing that rejecting others simply because of their religious or ethnic differences is a dangerous mindset that must be challenged.
He urged the international community to take responsibility in fostering tolerance and understanding. He highlighted the role of educational and cultural institutions in shaping future generations, stressing that raising awareness among young people is crucial in countering hatred and misinformation.
Following his address, representatives from various UN member states took the floor, outlining their governments’ efforts to combat Islamophobia and promote social cohesion.
