UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres has urged governments, institutions and communities worldwide to intensify efforts to combat Islamophobia and protect Muslims from discrimination, hostility and violence.

He warned that prejudice against Muslims threatens social cohesion, undermines human rights and weakens efforts to build peaceful and inclusive societies across the world.

Mr Guterres made the call on Sunday in a message marking the United Nations’ International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed annually. 

According to him, the world’s two billion Muslims come from diverse cultures, languages and traditions, reflecting the richness and diversity of humanity.

He said Muslim communities contribute significantly to global development through education, commerce, science, culture and public service in many countries.

“Yet they often face institutional discrimination, socio-economic exclusion, biased immigration policies, and unwarranted surveillance and profiling. These worrying trends are fuelled by anti-Muslim rhetoric and outright hate, which can lead to harassment and violence against individuals and places of worship,” he said.

Mr Guterres warned that unchecked hate speech, misinformation and stereotypes could deepen divisions and threaten peaceful coexistence among different faiths and cultures.

He urged governments to take concrete steps to tackle hate speech, protect religious freedom and combat discrimination in line with international human rights law.

The UN chief restated that policies and laws must guarantee equal rights and protection for people regardless of religion, belief, ethnicity or background.

Mr Guterres also called on technology companies and online platforms to strengthen measures against digital hate campaigns targeting religious communities. He said social media platforms must act responsibly to remove harmful content and prevent harassment based on religion or belief.

“All people must speak out against bigotry, xenophobia and discrimination wherever they find it,” he said.

He added that silence in the face of hate allows prejudice to spread and undermines collective efforts to build tolerant societies.

“That is why in May 2025 I appointed the High Representative for the Alliance of Civilisations as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia,” the UN boss said.

He said the envoy would help strengthen global cooperation and coordinate international actions aimed at addressing Islamophobia.

“On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let us recommit to equality, human rights and dignity for every person, regardless of faith. Let us eradicate the scourge of Islamophobia from every country and community,” Mr Guterres said.

(NAN)