Gilani urges global action to combat Islamophobia

ISLAMABAD, Mar 15 (APP): Chairman of the Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has called upon the global community to take collective measures to counter the growing manifestations of hatred, prejudice, and discrimination directed against Muslims across the world.
In his message on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Gilani observed that the persistence of Islamophobia in various societies undermines the fundamental principles of equality, human dignity, and religious freedom enshrined in international law and the Charter of the United Nations.
He expressed concern that incidents of hate speech, discrimination, and attacks against Muslim individuals and places of worship continue to occur in different regions, posing a serious challenge to peaceful coexistence and social harmony.
He said that Islam is a religion rooted in peace, compassion, and justice, and any attempt to associate it with extremism or violence reflects a deliberate distortion of its true teachings.
The Chairman of the Senate underscored that promoting tolerance and mutual respect among civilisations and religions is essential for global stability and harmony.
He urged governments, parliaments, international organisations, and civil society to strengthen legislative, policy, and institutional measures aimed at combating religious intolerance and safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all communities.
Gilani reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled commitment to advancing interfaith harmony, respect for all religions, and the protection of minority rights.
He further stressed that combating Islamophobia is a shared global responsibility and called on the international community to work collectively to promote understanding, inclusivity, and respect for diversity in order to build a more peaceful and just world.