RIYADH: Muslim World League Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa recently delivered a lecture at George Washington University in Washington, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

It was followed by a discussion on “the general concept of hatred” and “a comprehensive definition of hostility toward followers of religions and ethnicities that undermines their dignity, humanity, and rights.”

The MWL chief was hosted by George Washington University President Ellen M. Granberg in the presence of academics, students, and representatives of research centers.

In his address, Al-Issa emphasized that human dignity is a foundational principle of Islamic values and any violation is strictly prohibited by Islamic Shariah.

He underscored Islam’s stance toward people of all faiths and races, highlighting its unwavering rejection of contemptuous and racist practices, reflecting enduring Islamic values.

Al-Issa said anyone who failed to respect the humanity of others was, in a sense, hating themselves, whether they realized it or not, and stressed that humanity, in its shared origin, is indivisible.

He cited the Qur’anic verse: “And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam” (Qur’an 17:70), affirming the Islamic belief in every individual’s inherent right to dignity, without discrimination or hierarchy.

He further described hatred as a dangerous set of negative emotions that often escalates into racist behavior.

Addressing hatred at its roots, Al-Issa said, requires early prevention across all platforms of influence, especially families and educational institutions, so that awareness becomes instinctive, surpassing the impact of laws, which remain crucial.

He stressed that combating hatred is a shared international responsibility grounded in solidarity, the SPA reported.

Last week, bipartisan members of the US Congress honored Al-Issa at the Capitol in Washington in recognition of the league’s efforts to combat hate and promote religious coexistence.

Members of the House and Senate signed a certificate praising the MWL’s role in strengthening social cohesion and countering racism and hate-driven narratives.

Commenting on the honor, Al-Issa said the efforts being recognized reflected Islamic values that call for global peace and harmony within societies.

He reaffirmed the MWL’s commitment to promoting constructive dialogue and cooperation to foster greater understanding and awareness.