PUC observes International Day to Combat Islamophobia today

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) is set to lead the charge in commemorating the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on Friday with a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and foster solidarity against discrimination targeting Muslims.

This day, designated by the United Nations in 2022, is commemorated in 140 countries on March 15, worldwide, coinciding with the anniversary of the Christchurch mosque shooting where 51 individuals lost their lives during Friday prayers.

Talking to media , PUC Chairman Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi underscored the alarming rise in Islamophobia as a global threat to Muslims. He urged world powers to accelerate their efforts in eradicating Islamophobia, emphasizing the urgent need for swift action. He stressed collective responsibility of the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and other international entities to spearhead initiatives aimed at eliminating all forms of discrimination. He emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of love, tolerance and coexistence as fundamental pillars of a harmonious global society. He stressed the urgent need for concerted efforts at both national and international levels to address the scourge of Islamophobia and upholding the principles of equality and mutual respect among diverse religious communities.

He said the day held significant importance, particularly for the PUC, which had long been at the forefront of advocating religious tolerance and understanding. Urging unity and collective action, he called upon Ulema and Mashaykh (religious leaders) from all schools of thought to utilize their Friday sermons to highlight the significance of this day and emphasize the importance of respecting religious diversity. With Islamophobia on the rise globally, Ashrafi said the council’s initiative came at a pivotal moment, aiming to dispel misconceptions, foster dialogue and promote mutual understanding among different faith communities. He said the council’s commitment to combat discrimination aligned with the fundamental principles of human rights and religious freedom enshrined in the international law. By standing together and amplifying their voices, he said the council wanted to create a more inclusive society where all individuals could live free from fear and discrimination based on their religious beliefs.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Saudi leadership for their unwavering support and pivotal role in advocating legal rights of the Muslim Ummah on the global stage. He commended Saudi Arabia’s consistent efforts to champion the cause of Muslims and uphold justice at international forums.

The resolution for this day was introduced by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and unanimously adopted by the 193-member world body. It was co-sponsored by 55 predominantly Muslim countries, emphasizing the fundamental right to freedom of religion and belief. Furthermore, it recalls a 1981 resolution urging the eradication of all forms of intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief.