International Conference in Baku to Address Global Rise of Islamophobia
Titled “Islamophobia in Focus: Unveiling Bias, Shattering Stigmas”, the event is organized jointly by the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre (BIMC), the Center for the Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), and the Baku Initiative Group. It is timed to mark the third anniversary of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, recognized annually on March 15.
The international conference is supported by numerous international partners, including the G20 Interfaith Forum, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue (DICID), and the Council of Muslim Elders, among others.
Organizers expect participation from over 120 international guests representing nearly 40 countries. Attendees will include scholars, policymakers, religious leaders, and civil society representatives. The conference aims to establish an academic and policy-oriented platform to examine and address growing anti-Muslim sentiment worldwide.
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Scheduled topics include global and regional trends in Islamophobia, legal and political responses to anti-Muslim rhetoric, the role of artificial intelligence and digital media in amplifying or countering bias, and the intersection of gender, identity, and religious discrimination.
Additional discussions will focus on the institutionalization of anti-Muslim policies in Europe, the protection of Islamic cultural heritage, and youth-led initiatives to combat misinformation and prejudice.
Speaking at a press briefing in Istanbul ahead of the event, Farid Shafiyev, chairman of the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), emphasized the need for concrete measures against Islamophobia.
He noted the launch of a new observatory website to monitor global trends in anti-Muslim discrimination.
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BIMC (Baku International Multiculturalism Centre) Executive Director Ravan Hasanov stressed the urgency of addressing rising discrimination against Muslim communities. He described the conference as a critical forum for global cooperation and practical solutions.
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia was first proposed by the OIC in 2020 and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2022.
The world has seen a surge in Islamophobia, especially in Western countries, following the start of the war between the Israeli regime and Palestinian resistance groups in Gaza since October 2023.
Source: Agencies
