Northern Cyprus rep: Social demands made by Muslims in Europe among root causes of Islamophobia

The social demands voiced by Muslims who travel to Europe to earn a living are among root causes of Islamophobia, stated Huseyin Isiksal, Special Advisor to the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the field of International Relations and Diplomacy, Report informs.

Speaking on the second day of the international conference themed “Islamophobia in Focus: Unveiling Bias, Shattering Stigmas” in Baku, Isiksal noted that Muslims who went to Europe naturally demanded normal living standards and job opportunities like others:

"Because Muslims are mainly involved in hard labor. These demands by Muslims caused concern among Europeans. We (Northern Cyprus-ed.) are subjected to inhumane embargoes today just because we are Muslim and Turks. Although our country has all the attributes of a modern state, we face discrimination. We have representative offices in 20 countries. The number of our consulates will also increase in the coming years. These should be taken into account."

On May 27, the second day of the international conference themed “Islamophobia in Focus: Unveiling Bias, Shattering Stigmas” commenced in Baku.

The event, organized by the Baku International Multiculturalism Center and the Center for the Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), is dedicated to the third anniversary of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

The conference has brought together experts, academics, and government officials to examine the global, historical, and political factors that give rise to Islamophobia.

Over the past two years, the Baku International Multiculturalism Center and the AIR Center have organized consecutive international conferences dedicated to Islamophobia in collaboration with the G20 Interfaith Forum. The purpose of these conferences has been to contribute to efforts to combat all forms and manifestations of Islamophobia.

As part of the conferences, participants have discussed various aspects of combating Islamophobia, including the importance of an intersectional approach, historical and contemporary perspectives on Islamophobia, promoting joint cooperation, and the role of international organizations in the struggle. Additionally, discussions on promoting religious diversity and interfaith respect have also been held.