United Nations
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called out social media for the spread of Islamophobia and other forms of bigotry.
Around the world, we see a rising tide of anti-Muslim hate and bigotry. We must call this what it is hate plain and simple, Guterres was quoted by sources.
Online platforms have become breeding grounds for extremist ideologies and harassment, he told a high-level event to mark the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on Friday.
Digital platforms must moderate and prevent the spread of hateful content, while protecting users from harassment. Artificial intelligence must reduce biases and stereotypes, not reproduce and amplify them. All people must do their part to dismantle the walls of intolerance and division, he added.
Calling India ‘a proud champion of pluralism,’ India’s Permanent Representative Ruchira Kamboj opposed the establishment of the post of ‘special envoy’ on a special religion at the United Nations.
This comes as the UN General Assembly adopted the Resolution on ‘Measures to Combat Islamophobia’ which, inter alia, calls for the appointment of a UN Special Envoy to combat Islamophobia.
Explaining India’s position during the adoption of the resolution, Ambassador Kamboj said that while the issue of Islamophobia is undoubtedly significant, one must acknowledge that other religions are also facing discrimination.
The country’s chief diplomat at the UN, Ambassador Munir Akram, had said that Muslims around the world face discrimination, and ‘bold and decisive actions are needed to counter and combat Islamophobia.’
