Islamophobia Is a Major Threat to Global Harmony, Muslim World League Chief Tells UN
New York – March 14, 2025: Islamophobia is one of the most alarming forms of hate speech today, according to Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL). Al-Issa made these remarks during his keynote speech at the United Nations General Assembly on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The event provided a critical platform for Al-Issa to raise awareness about the growing concerns surrounding Islamophobia and its increasingly harmful effects on global coexistence. His speech not only highlighted the dire consequences of this widespread prejudice but also called on the international community to take decisive action.
Rising Islamophobia: A Global Concern
Al-Issa emphasized that Islamophobia is not merely a religious issue, but a broader humanitarian crisis. He warned that the consequences of such hatred extend beyond Muslim communities, contributing to the rise of extremism and deepening social divisions. Islamophobia, he argued, challenges the very ideals of inclusive citizenship that are central to democratic societies and international human rights.
In his address, Al-Issa noted the concerning rise in discrimination against Muslims worldwide. He highlighted instances of marginalization, the barriers faced by Muslims in their efforts to integrate into society, and the denial of their basic rights. He stressed that this discrimination is not only a violation of human rights but a direct threat to the social fabric of diverse societies.
The Root Causes and Global Implications
Al-Issa explored the root causes of Islamophobia, reminding the audience that the nearly 2 billion Muslims globally represent the true essence of Islam—engaged in positive interactions with people of all faiths, ethnicities, and cultures. Drawing from the Qur’an, Al-Issa referenced verses that promote unity and understanding among people of different backgrounds. He affirmed that Islam’s core message is one of peace, tolerance, and coexistence.
He also pointed out that Islamophobia is not limited to specific regions or communities. Rather, it is a global challenge that threatens the peace and harmony of societies everywhere. In this context, Al-Issa emphasized that defending Islam is synonymous with defending universal human values, such as respect for diversity and human dignity.
Political Rhetoric and Media Influence
Al-Issa condemned political rhetoric that exploits fear for electoral gains and called out media platforms that spread divisive narratives. He criticized those who seek to link terrorism with Islam and denounced extremists who manipulate religious teachings for their personal agendas. Such rhetoric, he stated, perpetuates harmful stereotypes and fuels further hostility toward Muslims.
The MWL chief stressed that rejecting individuals based on their religious or ethnic backgrounds is a dangerous mindset that needs to be confronted. He urged the international community to take responsibility for fostering tolerance and understanding, especially in light of the growing global trend of Islamophobic sentiment.
The Role of Education and Cultural Awareness
Highlighting the importance of education, Al-Issa called on institutions worldwide to play a more active role in combating Islamophobia. He argued that education and cultural institutions are key to shaping future generations that can build a more inclusive and tolerant society. Raising awareness among young people, he said, is crucial in countering hate and misinformation.
Al-Issa’s address resonated with many in the international community, as it prompted a series of responses from UN member states. Representatives from various countries shared their governments’ ongoing efforts to fight Islamophobia, promote social cohesion, and combat hate speech in all its forms.
A Call for Global Solidarity
As the event concluded, Al-Issa’s speech underscored the need for collective action to combat Islamophobia and build a world where peace, coexistence, and mutual respect are the norm. His call to action was clear: fostering tolerance, respect, and understanding is not only essential to resolving current divisions but is also critical to creating a more peaceful and just world for future generations.
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia, as highlighted by Al-Issa’s powerful address, serves as a reminder that the fight against discrimination must be a collective, ongoing effort, driven by a shared commitment to human dignity and respect for all people, regardless of their faith or background.
- Source: ARAB NEWS
