Baku Hosts International Conference on Tackling Islamophobia in 2024: Embracing Diversity
Baku, The Gulf Observer: A significant two-day international scientific conference, themed “Embracing Diversity: Tackling Islamophobia in 2024,” commenced today in Baku, as reported by media. Co-organized by the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre, Azerbaijan’s Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR), the G20 Interfaith Dialogue Forum, and the Baku Initiative Group, the conference aims to shed light on the prevalent issue of Islamophobia on the occasion of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The event opened with an address by Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, who read out President Ilham Aliyev’s message to participants. In his opening remarks, Ravan Hasanov, Executive Director of the Baku International Multiculturalism Center, emphasized the need to discuss strategies for combating Islamophobia on the international stage. He expressed concern about the isolation and discrimination faced by Muslims globally, particularly in Western countries, and stressed the importance of fostering a world where everyone can live in peace.
Farid Shafiyev, Chairman of the Board of the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), highlighted that discrimination is not limited to Muslims, and Christians also face similar challenges in the contemporary world. He emphasized the significance of addressing discrimination globally and the importance of discussing gender issues in the context of Islamophobia. Shafiyev called for political and international measures to combat this form of discrimination.
In a video-address, Miguel Angel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, expressed deep regret over the global spread of Islamophobia. He asserted that Islamophobia is not hatred against Muslims but a phobia, contradicting the principles of human rights. Moratinos urged collective action against intolerance to establish a just and peaceful world, emphasizing the compassionate and respectful foundations of all religions.
Yousef M. Al-Dobeay, Assistant Secretary-General of Political Affairs of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), highlighted the significance of the designation of March 15 by the United Nations as the International Day to combat Islamophobia. He stressed Azerbaijan’s commitment to fighting Islamophobia and called on international organizations and civil societies to unite against oppression and discrimination based on religious beliefs.
President of the G20 Interfaith Dialogue Forum, Prof. Cole Durham, urged a robust response to biased and negative trends against Islam globally. He emphasized the need to eradicate Islamophobia and underscored the importance of comprehensive efforts to address the issue.
The conference continued with plenary sessions, fostering a platform for constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts in addressing the global challenge of Islamophobia.
