ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday urged the international community to take resolute action against rising Islamophobia, warning at the United Nations (UN) that hate speech has fueled attacks on Muslims, the desecration of mosques and restrictions on religious freedoms in several parts of the world.
Pakistan has played a leading role in raising global awareness about Islamophobia through its diplomatic efforts, particularly at the UN and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighting that anti-Muslim sentiment not only undermines social harmony but also fuels extremism and hate crimes.
Speaking at an event to mark the International Day of Hate Speech, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, voiced concern over the proliferation of hate speech into mainstream discourse where identity is weaponized and perceived fear of vulnerable communities is exploited.
“Islamophobia is one of the most virulent forms of hate speech, evident in attacks on Muslims lives, identity and symbols; desecration of mosques; curbs on religious freedoms,” he said.
“At some places, Islamophobic narrative and discourse have even entered into a symbiotic relationship with local power structures and vested interests. In view of these aggravating challenges, our response must be principled, resolute and forward-looking.”
Together with the OIC, Pakistan’s efforts prompted the UN in 2022 to designate March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, marking a significant step toward global acknowledgment of this issue. Through these efforts, Islamabad has continued to champion tolerance, coexistence and the right of Muslims everywhere to practice their faith without fear or prejudice.
Ahmad called hate speech an assault against humanity, which disrupts societies, militates against human equality and dehumanizes entire groups.
The digital age has further intensified the threats posed by this menace. Online platforms amplify hatred, promote disinformation and provoke incitement against vulnerable communities, according to the envoy.
History bears ample testimony to the fact that wrongs bred by hate speech don’t always remain confined to the national boundaries. They imperil international peace and stability, even dragging communities and countries to genocide and atrocity crimes.
“Pakistan is a firm defender of human dignity, equality and freedom. We join Member States to call for fully implementing relevant UN General Assembly resolutions on hate speech and for implementation of UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech,” Ahmad added.
