In a compelling plea to the international community, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis emphasized the imperative need to combat racism and xenophobia in all their forms. Speaking through a video message on the occasion of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Francis underscored how intolerance, xenophobia, and hate speech have fueled a concerning surge in hate crimes, conflicts, and socio-economic marginalization worldwide.
“States bear the primary obligation to safeguard and defend all human rights and to eradicate racism and discrimination. However, as responsible global citizens, each of us is duty-bound to contribute to combating any form of discrimination and incitement to hatred and violence against Muslims, as well as individuals of other belief systems,” Francis stated emphatically.
Highlighting the current global scenario, particularly amidst ongoing military confrontations in the Middle East, Francis condemned the alarming escalation of Islamophobia and anti-Semitism worldwide. He asserted his steadfast opposition to racism and all forms of discrimination, urging the entire international community and civil society to reject racism and xenophobia unequivocally.
Francis implored people to resist the forces of division and hate, advocating instead for dialogue, tolerance, respect, understanding, harmony, and compassion towards all individuals. Expressing deep concern over the escalating discrimination, intolerance, and violence against various religious groups globally, he condemned all acts of violence against Muslims and persons of other religions, as well as attacks on places of worship and religious sites.
In a stern rebuke against hate speech, Francis emphasized that such acts cannot be justified under the guise of freedom of expression. He stressed the interdependence of freedoms, asserting that every individual has the right to live without fear of violence or prejudice, including freedom of religion, opinion, and assembly.
Recalling the UNGA’s resolution adopted in 2022, designating March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia following the Christchurch massacre, Francis reiterated his solidarity with Muslims worldwide, especially those targeted by Islamophobia, racism, or discrimination.
Francis applauded the adoption of the resolution by the UNGA, which further intensifies efforts to combat all forms of intolerance and discrimination, including Islamophobia. He commended Member States for their leadership in this endeavor and urged collective action to eradicate such pervasive evils from society.
The resolution, sponsored by 60 member-states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), emphasized that terrorism and violent extremism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group. It called for a global dialogue to promote a culture of tolerance and peace, based on respect for human rights and religious diversity.
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