UN official: Islamophobia threatens not only Muslim communities but also global stability

Islamophobia poses a threat not only to Muslim communities but also to global stability, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, said during a special session at the UN General Assembly dedicated to the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

According to Report's US bureau, Moratinos thanked the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its efforts in combating Islamophobia, emphasizing that Islamophobia threatens not only Muslim communities but also global stability, and joint efforts from the international community are crucial to prevent this.

He noted that it is vital for member states to be resolute in combating Islamophobia.

"Hate speech leads to societal fragmentation, violence, and the destabilization of societies. Muslims often face institutional discrimination and socio-economic barriers. This discrimination is further reinforced by negative stereotypes created in the media, politics, and law enforcement," Moratinos noted.

He also highlighted that the rise in Islamophobia is linked to growing ethnonationalist and neo-Nazi ideologies worldwide:

"These ideologies target not only Muslims but also Jews, Christian minorities, and other religious communities. I strongly condemn attacks on religious sites, the desecration of holy books, and violence against people of faith."

The UN official stressed the importance of taking concrete actions in the fight against Islamophobia:

"Governments must strengthen social unity, promote dialogue, and protect human rights to prevent hate and discrimination worldwide. Especially, digital platforms must moderate hate speech and behave more responsibly to protect users. Combatting Islamophobia through collective efforts and preserving universal values such as religious tolerance and respect for human rights is our shared duty."