Video Message by Under-Secretary-General Miguel Ángel Moratinos,
the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations,
at the High-Level event on the occasion of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia
New York, 15 March 2024
Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
Al Salamu Alikom and Ramdan Kareem.
It gives me a great honour to be addressing this High-Level event commemorating the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
I wish to applaud the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and particularly the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, the Chair of the 49th session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, for focusing attention and calling for action, to curb and put an end to Islamophobia.
It is alarming to see the overall rise in instances of discrimination, intolerance and violence, directed against members of many religious communities in various parts of the world, including cases motivated by Islamophobia, antisemitism and prejudices against Christian minorities as well as other faith communities.
It is particularly heart breaking that many Muslims observing the holy month of Ramadan are suffering wars and conflicts.
Around the world, Muslims are still facing stigmatization, hate speech and structural bias.
Their fundamental human rights are being compromised.
Their dignity undermined.
Manifestations of discrimination, bigotry and violence against Muslims including the desecration of their holy book, mosques and sacred sites are unjustifiable and are utterly rejected.
Across our cross-cutting activities, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations promotes interreligious and intercultural dialogue, emphasizes respect for religious and cultural diversity with the aim of advancing a culture of tolerance and respect among individuals, societies and nations.
I stand ready with my office to work closely with you to address Islamophobia through mobilizing concerted actions towards a paradigm of mutual respect among diverse cultures and religions.
Concluding, I wish to extend my warmest wishes to all Muslims around the world on the occasion of the Holy month of Ramadan.
Thank you.