Doha, March 25 (QNA) - Despite repeated warnings from the United Nations and its recognition as a violation of international law and human rights, Islamophobia and discrimination against Muslims continue to rise in parts of the world.

Islamophobia, defined as fear or prejudice against Muslims leading to provocation, hostility, and incitement, occurs both in reality and online. Recent data from human rights organizations indicate record levels of anti-Muslim incidents and hate speech in several countries, despite official pledges to combat all forms of discrimination. The UN and human rights groups note a marked increase in Islamophobia since the escalation of Israeli aggression in Gaza on October 7, 2023.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on March 15, highlighted the alarming rise in anti-Muslim bigotry worldwide.

He stated that the world is witnessing increased racial profiling, discriminatory policies, and outright violence against individuals and places of worship, and stressed the need for online platforms to combat hate speech and harassment.

In statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Assistant Professor at Qatar University's Department of International Affairs in the Faculty of Arts Dr. Abdullah Al Otaibi explained that the rising anti-Muslim sentiment, particularly in Western nations, is influenced by complex structural and contextual factors.

He cited a historical Orientalist legacy that fostered negative stereotypes about Islam and Muslims as cultural or political "others," noting that these biases persist in mainstream discourse due to a lack of critical reassessment.

Dr. Al Otaibi added that weak moderate media narratives and the exploitation of incidents by populist right-wing parties have accelerated the spread of Islamophobia.

He also pointed to globalization and immigration waves that have introduced Muslim communities with distinct identities to Western cities, fueling cultural anxiety among some groups. This anxiety is exacerbated by the absence of effective cultural and educational integration programs in many countries.

To combat these phenomena, Dr. Al Otaibi emphasized the need for transformative strategies rather than defensive responses. Legal frameworks should be revised to explicitly address religious discrimination and criminalize profiling based on faith. Simultaneously, Muslim communities must be empowered to engage with decision-making, education, and media institutions as active contributors.

Addressing the potential escalation of anti-Muslim prejudice into direct violence, Dr. Al Otaibi called for clear political will to combat hate crimes through strict laws and dedicated security units.

Beyond security measures, he advocated for cultural and media reforms to challenge narratives that justify or ignore such violence. Interfaith alliances, particularly in Western countries, are vital to demonstrating solidarity against hate, with initiatives like exchange programs in schools and places of worship promoting trust and breaking stereotypes. 

Speaking to QNA, Assistant Professor in the Department of International Affairs at Qatar University Dr. Abdullah Al Otaibi emphasized the need for humanity to adopt several mechanisms to fight religious intolerance and discrimination, particularly against Islam and Muslims. He advocated for the establishment of a binding international charter prohibiting hate speech against religions and affirming freedom of belief within frameworks of societal responsibility.

Dr. Al Otaibi suggested strengthening global religious dialogue through independent institutions funded by UN organizations or regional alliances. He also proposed empowering youth to lead initiatives that utilize modern tools such as digital media and interactive arts. Universities and research centers should play a role in providing a scientifically accurate portrayal of Islam to reach broader audiences.

Regarding social media’s impact, Dr. Al Otaibi warned that its algorithms often amplify divisive and provocative content, spreading anti-Muslim sentiment. However, he acknowledged its positive potential in offering marginalized communities' platforms to raise awareness and build cross-border solidarity. He stressed the importance of promoting balanced and responsible use of these tools.

Dr. Al Otaibi concluded by calling for international digital legislation that sets clear standards to combat hateful content and ensures major platforms respond seriously to complaints. He suggested Islamic nations form a regional digital alliance to develop counter-narratives highlighting Islamic culture’s positive aspects and documenting hate speech practices.

In a related discussion, Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed Al Karoory, Professor at Lusail University’s College of Law, spoke to QNA identifying factors contributing to rising Islamophobia. These include the deliberate misassociation of isolated violent acts with Islam, biased media coverage perpetuating negative stereotypes, and insufficient understanding of Islamic cultures. Immigration policies framing Muslim refugees as cultural threats also contribute to the issue.

Dr. Al Karoory proposed combating intolerance through purposeful media campaigns, educational programs, and laws promoting equality and banning racial discrimination. He emphasized regular monitoring and reporting on hate speech incidents globally to evaluate human rights conditions and highlight violations.

Many governments have already enacted measures to combat Islamophobia by introducing hate crime laws, prosecuting perpetrators, and organizing public awareness campaigns to dispel misconceptions about Muslims and Islam.

Additionally, the 60 member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) adopted a UN General Assembly resolution designating March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. This resolution underscores that terrorism and violent extremism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group. It calls for fostering global dialogue to promote tolerance and peace, rooted in respect for human rights and the diversity of beliefs. (QNA)