The United Nations General Assembly took a significant step in addressing Islamophobia on March 15th, the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
With a resounding vote of 115 in favor, no opposing votes, and 44 abstentions, the assembly overwhelmingly endorsed a resolution titled “Measures to combat Islamophobia.”
This resolution, spearheaded by Pakistan and backed by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states, calls for concrete action against religious intolerance, specifically targeting Islamophobia.
It proposes the appointment of a dedicated UN special envoy to focus solely on combating Islamophobia. This envoy would work to develop and implement strategies to address this growing issue.
The resolution also holds member states accountable. It urges them to take decisive action against Islamophobia within their borders.
Additionally, it requests a report from the UN Secretary-General by this fall, outlining the progress made in implementing these measures and the overall efforts to combat Islamophobia.
This action by the UN General Assembly builds on previous resolutions passed in July 2023.
One resolution condemned the burning of the Quran, labeling it an act of “religious hatred.” Another resolution went further, declaring all acts of violence against religious texts to be a violation of international law.
These earlier resolutions establish a legal foundation for addressing Islamophobia on the international stage.
