The State of Qatar has called for effective measures to combat Islamophobia and all forms of intolerance, by everyone, regardless of their religion or background.
This came in the State of Qatar's statement delivered by Second Secretary at Qatar's Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva Mohamed Al Buainain, during a side event organized on the sidelines of the 52nd Regular Session of Human Rights Council in Geneva, to celebrate the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
Al Buainain indicated that Islamophobia is not a new phenomenon, but it has been on the rise in recent years, fueled by ignorance, prejudices, and deliberate misinformation, and manifested in various forms such as verbal abuse, discrimination, physical attacks, and even the burning of the Holy Qur'an.
The Holy Qur'an has a special place in the hearts and minds of Muslims, as it is a source of guidance and inspiration, the statement said, stressing that watching it burn is very painful and unacceptable. The statement emphasized the need to condemn acts of hatred and disrespect towards Muslims in the strongest possible terms, and take action to combat them.
Regardless of our religion or background, we are all responsible to stand up against Islamophobia and all forms of blind fanatism, the statement said, adding that people must also educate themselves, promote interfaith dialogue, and work towards building bridges of understanding and respect.
Al Buainain pointed out that Islamophobia does not only affect Muslims, but also undermines the values of justice, equality and human rights that everyone cherishes, stressing that work must be done to create a world that accepts diversity, in which everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
On the occasion of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Second Secretary at Qatar's Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva Mohamed Al Buainain called for pledging solidarity with Muslim brothers and sisters, and to work for a world in which all peoples can live in peace and harmony.