Special Correspondent
NEW YORK: United Nations Secretary General António Guterres has stressed the importance of working together to uphold equality, human rights and dignity, and build inclusive societies where everyone, regardless of their faith, can live in peace and harmony.
In his message on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the UN secretary general said, “As Muslims around the world come together to mark the holy month of Ramadan, many do so in fear – fear of discrimination, exclusion, and even violence.”
He added that we are witnessing a disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry: From racial profiling and discriminatory policies that violate human rights and dignity, to outright violence against individuals and places of worship.
“This is part of a wider scourge of intolerance, extremist ideologies, and attacks against religious groups and vulnerable populations.”
When one group is attacked, the rights and freedoms of all are at risk. As a global community, we must reject and eradicate bigotry.
Governments must foster social cohesion and protect religious freedom. Online platforms must curb hate speech and harassment. And we must all speak out against bigotry, xenophobia, and discrimination.
Comments are closed.