Islamophobia threatens global peace, says CM

Urges global action against anti-Muslim hate, calls for interfaith harmony

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Sunday said that Islamophobia poses a serious threat to global peace and human rights, urging the international community to take collective and effective measures to counter the growing trend of hatred and prejudice against Muslims.

In his message on the occasion of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, CM Shah said discrimination and hate directed at Muslims were contrary to the fundamental principles of humanity and undermined social harmony across the world.

He said Muslims in various parts of the world were facing discrimination, hate speech and prejudice, adding that addressing the issue had become an urgent necessity for the global community.

CM Shah stressed that terrorism or extremism should not be associated with any religion, nation or civilisation, terming such generalisations unjust. "The world must move beyond the mindset of 'us and them' and instead promote tolerance, mutual respect and equality," he added.

Highlighting Sindh's tradition of coexistence, the chief minister said the province had long been known as the land of Sufi saints where the message of love, tolerance and interfaith harmony had always been promoted.

He said people belonging to all faiths enjoyed equal rights in the province and that Sindh's culture symbolised peace, tolerance and respect for diversity. The provincial government, he added, rejected politics based on hatred and prejudice.

CM Shah also urged responsible political and social leadership, as well as the media, to promote dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect rather than divisive narratives. He stressed that raising global awareness, introducing effective legislation and taking practical steps were essential to eliminate Islamophobia.