Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Hussein Ibrahim Taha issued on Friday a message emphasizing the need for global unity against the rising threat of Islamophobia.
On International Day to Combat Islamophobia, he declared: "This day is a chance to stand with victims of Islamophobia."
He condemned acts of violence, harassment and intimidation fueled by religious hatred and fanaticism. He urged "all concerned parties" to take concrete steps to counter these "forces of evil" that undermine peaceful coexistence between religions.
Taha applauded the 2022 UN General Assembly resolution adopted on March 15 as International Day to Combat Islamophobia. He called this a crucial step in tackling religious incitement, discrimination and violence.
He expressed concern about the growing influence of hate and intolerance. He highlighted a worrying trend in which Islamophobia and xenophobia are becoming normalized. He pointed to instances of abuse toward religious leaders, desecration of holy texts and sites, and attacks on places of worship, often seemingly tolerated by authorities.
Taha called on the international community to join forces and take concrete actions against Islamophobia. He stressed the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and interfaith harmony to build a more peaceful world.
