KARACHI:
Since the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent US-led war on terror, around the world, Muslims are viewed in a negative light and treated indiscriminately. Despite being victims of terrorism, Muslim countries and diaspora Muslims have become easy targets for hatemongering, racism and Islamophobia. In the past decade, both isolated and mass attacks on Muslims in Western countries intensified. In 2019, a deadly shooting occurred at the Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand. On social media, Muslims have been subjected to smear campaigns, abuse, etc.
Western leaders and news outlets have also failed to differentiate Islam as a religion from terrorism and have held a biased approach. Many countries imposed a ban on hijab in the workplace, at schools, and in public spaces. In the past, travel bans have been placed on several Muslim countries. Recently, the Indian state of Karnataka banned students from wearing a hijab. Despite a global uproar, Karnataka high court upheld government orders. The negative depiction of Muslims in television shows and films i.e. their portrayal as oppressive and violent people has further aggravated global animosity against Muslims.
In a turn of events, the Muslim community has emerged successful in its efforts to combat Islamophobia in which Pakistan has played a leading role. On 15th March, the United Nations adopted a resolution against Islamophobia and declared 15th March as an international day to combat Islamophobia. In the upcoming session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, strong policies should be formulated to ensure the implementation of the resolution. All Muslim nations must work cooperatively to alleviate the negative perception against Islam and Muslims and ensure a smooth integration of all Muslim countries in the international community.
Huma Nawaz
Rawalpindi
Published in The Express Tribune, March 18th, 2022.
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