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Source: Anadolu Agency
António Guterres, March 15, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called for stronger global action to address Islamophobia, warning that millions of Muslims worldwide continue to face discrimination, exclusion and prejudice.
In a video message marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Guterres said the world’s nearly two billion Muslims represent diverse cultures and societies, yet many still encounter institutional discrimination and social barriers.
He noted that Muslims often face socio-economic exclusion, biased immigration policies, as well as unwarranted surveillance and profiling. According to the UN chief, such trends are frequently fueled by anti-Muslim rhetoric and hate speech that can lead to harassment and violence against individuals and places of worship.
Guterres urged governments and societies to take concrete measures to combat hate speech, protect religious freedom and ensure respect for international human rights law. He also called on online platforms to curb harassment and hateful content targeting individuals because of their religion or beliefs.
The UN chief recalled that in May 2025 the High Representative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations was appointed as a special envoy to strengthen global efforts against Islamophobia.
The observance of March 15 also commemorates victims of the Christchurch mosque shootings in Christchurch, where 51 people were killed in attacks on two mosques.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2022 declaring March 15 the International Day to Combat Islamophobia to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence worldwide.