In observance of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on 15 March, as established by United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/76/254 on 15 March 2022, the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, in collaboration with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO), is organising the International Conference to Combat Islamophobia. The conference, themed "Islamophobia: Concept and Practice in the Current Global Context," is scheduled for 8 July 2025 at the League's General Secretariat headquarters.
The initiative addresses the concerning rise in hate speech and discrimination against Muslims, exacerbated by global crises and conflicts that deepen cultural and religious divides. The conference aims to illuminate this phenomenon and explore strategies to counter it, fostering coexistence and mutual respect among religious communities. Combating Islamophobia necessitates comprehensive strategies that promote tolerance and cultural and religious diversity. These strategies encompass educational and media initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of dialogue and non-discrimination, support for interfaith dialogue initiatives to strengthen bonds between diverse communities, and efforts to build inclusive societies that celebrate religious and cultural diversity as catalysts for progress, thereby constructing a world of peace and understanding.
Her Excellency Ambassador Dr. Haifa Abu Ghazaleh, Assistant Secretary-General and head of the Social Affairs Sector, reaffirmed the League of Arab States' dedication to combating all forms of hatred and discrimination. She said that Islam advocates for peace, justice, and tolerance, and highlighted the importance of international collaboration to correct persistent stereotypes about the Islamic faith. Her Excellency underscored that education and awareness are pivotal in countering negative stereotypes against Islam and Muslims, necessitating joint efforts to disseminate values of peace and openness.
The League of Arab States urges all international entities to consolidate efforts to confront acts of religious hatred, attacks on beliefs, and actions that distort the image of religions and discriminate based on religion or belief. It also calls for intensified efforts to encourage global dialogue promoting a culture of tolerance and peace at all levels, respecting religious diversity to build bridges of understanding and peaceful coexistence, and collaborating to break cycles of hatred and conflict, steering towards a world that celebrates diversity and mutual respect.
In conclusion, the League of Arab States reiterates its commitment to promoting noble human values that advocate tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding among peoples, aiming to build a world of peace, love, and brotherhood, free from hatred and discrimination.
