The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution on Friday titled “Measures to Combat Islamophobia.” The Pakistan-backed resolution on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It comes amidst rising concerns about discrimination and violence faced by Muslims around the world.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has passed a resolution titled ‘Measures to Combat Islamophobia,’ proposed by Pakistan, with an overwhelming majority. The Pakistan-backed resolution aims to address discrimination, prejudice, and violence against Muslims worldwide. Key elements of the resolution include the appointment of a special envoy to combat Islamophobia.
Key Points
- The resolution was adopted on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, emphasizing concerted action to end violence against Muslims.
- It calls for the appointment of a UN special envoy to combat Islamophobia, among other measures.
- The vote saw 113 member states in favor, with none against and 44 abstentions. Notably, India and most European nations abstained from the vote.
- The UNGA rejected two proposed amendments by a group of European nations. These included suggestions to replace language in the resolution and remove references to the desecration of the Holy Quran.
- The International Day to Combat Islamophobia was established following the 2019 attacks on mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.
- Ambassador Munir Akram, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, introduced the resolution. He highlighted the alarming rise of Islamophobia, citing incidents of discrimination, hate speech, and violence against Muslims worldwide.
- Akram criticized governments for failing to prevent and punish acts of Islamophobia, noting the rise of right-wing and fascist ideologies in democracies.
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged effective measures to combat intolerance, stereotypes, and bias. He emphasized the need to condemn inflammatory discourse and safeguard religious freedom.
- Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemned all forms of religious hatred and intolerance, emphasizing the urgency to promote peace and tolerance.
- Nassima Baghli, Permanent Observer of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighted the rise of Islamophobia following Israeli aggression on Gaza. She called for greater efforts to combat discrimination and stereotypes based on religion.
The passage of this resolution signals a growing international recognition of the seriousness of Islamophobia. It is a critical step forward in promoting religious freedom and building a more inclusive global society.
