Pakistan, Maldives secure UN action on Islamaphobia

The UN Human Rights Council yesterday adopted a strong international resolution designed to combat intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatization of, and discrimination, incitement to violence, and violence against persons based on religion or belief. The resolution was negotiated by a core group of Islamic States including Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the Maldives; as well as representatives of the United States and the European Union. It is the first time that the international community has adopted such a stance by consensus. 
 
Speaking during the debate in the Council, Liusha Zahir, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Maldives noted that "Islamaphobia and related intolerance, stereotyping, incitement, and violence based on religion or belief is one of the most pressing human rights issues facing the world today. It has always been the Maldives view that, considering the scale and importance of the problem, it is vital for the international community to respond to it with one voice and with a common purpose. Only by responding together can we hope to solve this truly global problem".

"For this reason, the Maldives was pleased to be in the OIC's core group of ambassadors working on the resolution and is delighted that the text has been adopted by consensus. The Maldives believes the adopted resolution provides an effective and practical blueprint for protecting individuals around the world, a blueprint for action. The Maldives looks forward to the implementation of the steps foreseen therein and is committed to playing its part".