Muslims face discrimination and biased policies worldwide: Guterres
New York: António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, has stated that Muslims around the world face institutional discrimination, socio-economic exclusion, and biased immigration policies.
According to Kashmir Media Service, on Sunday, March 15, Guterres wrote that, in addition to discrimination, Muslims are also subjected to unwarranted surveillance and profiling.
Referring to the “International Day to Combat Islamophobia,” he said: “This International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let’s re-commit to the equality, human rights, and dignity of every person, no matter their faith.”
The UN Secretary-General had previously called for the establishment of lasting peace, the reduction of tensions, and the elimination of discrimination worldwide, noting that the UN Charter serves as the foundation for relations between countries and as a guide for the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Guterres emphasized that governments’ adherence to the principles of the UN Charter can help prevent the escalation of tensions and contribute to creating a safer and more just world.
Meanwhile, an earlier report by US Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has warned that the anti-conversion laws are being widely used to intimidate and target religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians, under the pretext of preventing forced conversions. It noted that vague provisions in several state laws allow authorities and vigilante groups to interfere in private religious choices, including interfaith marriages, thereby undermining the fundamental right to freedom of religion and belief.
The USCIRF urged the Indian government to repeal these discriminatory laws and ensure protection of religious freedom in line with its international obligations. It also reiterated its recommendation that India be designated as a “country of particular concern” for engaging in and tolerating systematic violations of religious freedom, warning that continued restrictions and persecution could further deteriorate the condition of minorities in the country.
