Guterres: ‘Disturbing Rise in Anti-Muslim Bigotry’ Requires Global Response
Guterres' video message came ahead of the International Day to combat Islamophobia. Rights groups around the world and the United Nations have noted a rise in Islamophobia, anti-Arab bias and antisemitism since the start of Israel's devastating war on Gaza.
"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," the UN chief said, without mentioning any specific country or government.
"Online platforms must curb hate speech and harassment. And we must all speak out against bigotry, xenophobia and discrimination."
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Rights advocates have for years raised concerns about stigma faced by Muslims and Arabs. At present, many pro-Palestinian activists, including in Western nations such as the United States, have complained and say that their advocacy for Palestinian rights is wrongly labeled as antisemitism or support for terrorism.
In recent weeks, rights watchdogs have published data noting record levels of anti-Muslim hate incidents and hate speeches in countries such as the UK, U.S. and India, among others. The governments of those countries say they aim to combat all forms of discrimination.
Source: Reuters
