Islamabad, Pakistan — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar today issues a stark warning regarding the escalating global threat of Islamophobia. Speaking on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed annually on March 15, Dar emphasizes that this alarming rise exacerbates existing tensions and conflicts, posing a severe threat to international peace and security.

Addressing the Global Rise of Islamophobia

Dar highlights numerous deeply troubling incidents occurring worldwide. These manifestations of Islamophobia include the desecration of the Holy Quran, physical assaults on women for wearing the hijab, and the vandalism of mosques. Furthermore, he points to religious profiling and the overt expression of anti-Muslim hatred prevalent in public discourse and media.

The Deputy Prime Minister stresses that such prejudice creates a dangerous cycle, intensifying global instability. Pakistan stands in unwavering solidarity with Muslims globally, reaffirming its commitment to actively combatting all forms of prejudice, discrimination, hostility, and violence targeting Muslim communities.

Pakistan's Pivotal Role in Countering Islamophobia

Pakistan, in close collaboration with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), has played a crucial role in advancing international efforts against Islamophobia. This includes the United Nations General Assembly’s (UNGA) landmark decision to designate March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in fostering harmony, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among diverse religions, cultures, and civilizations. Pakistan also spearheaded another vital UNGA resolution aimed at strengthening global efforts to counter Islamophobia, notably requesting the appointment of a dedicated United Nations special envoy to address this critical challenge.

The nation has welcomed the appointment of Miguel Angel Moratinos as the UN special envoy to combat Islamophobia, an appointment slated for May 2025. Similarly, Pakistan acknowledges the OIC Secretary-General’s special envoy on combating Islamophobia, appointed in May 2024. These appointments reflect a growing international resolve to tackle this issue in a coordinated and sustained manner.

Pakistan remains steadfast in its dedication to advancing global initiatives against Islamophobia. The country is actively collaborating with OIC member states and the UN special envoy to develop a comprehensive UN Plan of Action. This framework aims to enhance understanding, prevention, and ultimately, the elimination of this pervasive challenge.

The Deputy Prime Minister urges the international community to unite in condemning Islamophobia. He calls for concerted efforts to address the systemic conditions that allow such hatred to flourish. Pakistan advocates for all nations to promote mutual respect, dialogue, and understanding among communities, thereby upholding the fundamental values of tolerance, dignity, and peaceful coexistence.

Source: dawn.com