ISLAMABAD: Chairman of the Senate, Yousaf Raza Gilani, has urged the global community to unite in countering the rising phenomena of Islamophobia, which he claims poses a significant threat to peaceful coexistence and social harmony worldwide. Speaking on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Mr. Gilani stressed the urgent need for collective measures to address hatred, prejudice, and discrimination faced by Muslims globally.

According to Senate of Pakistan, Mr. Gilani highlighted the challenges posed by Islamophobia, emphasizing that it undermines the core principles of equality, human dignity, and religious freedom as outlined in international law and the United Nations Charter. He expressed concern over the ongoing incidents of hate speech, discrimination, and attacks on Muslim individuals and places of worship in various regions.

In his message, Mr. Gilani reiterated that Islam is a religion of peace, compassion, and justice. He warned against associating it with extremism or violence, viewing such associations as deliberate misrepresentations of Islamic teachings. The Senate Chairman emphasized the importance of promoting tolerance and mutual respect among different civilizations and religions as crucial for global stability.

Mr. Gilani called on governments, parliaments, international organizations, and civil society to enhance legislative, policy, and institutional frameworks to combat religious intolerance and protect the rights and freedoms of all communities. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering interfaith harmony and protecting minority rights.

The Chairman concluded by stressing that combating Islamophobia is a shared global responsibility, urging the international community to work collaboratively to foster understanding, inclusivity, and respect for diversity, aiming to build a more peaceful and just world.