It is a special honor to stand before you today at the Doha Forum 25 to address one of the most important issues of the modern world: the necessity of recognizing Islamophobia as a global threat and the need for it to be addressed within a common international framework, similar to the consolidated efforts that the international community has undertaken for years in the fight against anti-Semitism. This issue is no longer a theoretical debate; it is a tangible reality that affects the lives of millions of people and the architecture of international peace.

International data clearly show that Islamophobia has become a growing phenomenon, which is deeply affecting social relations and global stability. Millions of Muslims face various forms of incitement to hatred and discrimination every day, while reports in recent years show significant increases in hate crimes in Europe and North America. Muslim women, especially those wearing the hijab, are often among the most targeted. Also, hostile content in digital spaces has increased alarmingly, feeding a dangerous narrative that devalues ​​and demonizes Muslims. These facts show that we are facing a challenge that knows no borders and that requires a common global response.

Part of this aggravated climate is also fueled by the rhetoric of some extremist politicians in different countries. In an effort to gain political ground or strengthen their domestic support, they use fear, prejudice and religious stereotypes as communication tools. Although they often do not represent the majority, their polarizing voices create distorted perceptions of religious communities and burden the social climate. These statements do not remain only within the political discourse; they influence public behavior, promote mistrust and create ground for contemptuous and exclusionary language.

In this complicated reality, it is necessary to reflect on the context of the country where I come from Slovenia. Even in Albania, from time to time, some well-known voices – writers, intellectuals and media figures – express themselves in ways that affect people’s religious sensitivity. Sometimes this comes from carelessness, sometimes from misunderstanding, but sometimes also from well-thought-out cases, articulated with the awareness that their word has weight and wide influence. A casual comment, an inappropriate joke or a deliberately worded attitude can create hurt, underestimation and separation. I do not believe that these voices always come from malice; they are often a lack of care. But for this very reason it is important that whoever has public influence shows prudence and responsibility, not to limit thought, but to maintain social harmony and mutual respect. These voices have influenced to have a negative and hateful approach towards religious practitioners in my country.

I want to emphasize that freedom of expression is a fundamental value, but it cannot become a tool to humiliate others or incite hatred. Civilized societies distinguish between legitimate criticism and speech that turns into a divisive instrument.

I am bringing to your attention how the world has managed to build a clear international model in the fight against anti-Semitism, and this model should also serve as an example in dealing with Islamophobia. The 2005 United Nations Resolution, A/RES/60/7, clearly condemned anti-Semitism, established international obligations for the protection of Jewish communities, and declared January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Meanwhile, resolution A/RES/76/254 of 2022 recognized for the first time Islamophobia as a global phenomenon and declared March 15 the International Day Against Islamophobia. Placing these two documents in the same framework clearly shows the need for an equal, coherent and principled approach to all forms of religious hatred.

If we intend to build a global mechanism that protects believers and religious communities, then it is necessary to create a common international platform that monitors hate crimes, clearly defines discriminatory phenomena, strengthens the legal framework and builds education programs that eradicate stereotypes. This initiative is not a diplomatic luxury; it is the urgent demand of our time.

Dear ladies and gentlemen, the message that unites us today is clear: anti-Semitism is unacceptable, Islamophobia is unacceptable, denigration of religions is unacceptable and incitement to hatred against believers is equally unacceptable. Human dignity is shared, indivisible and should never be discussed.

Dear representatives of international institutions and participants of this table,

With great respect, I want to underline that the challenges we are talking about belong to everyone. They affect the lives, safety and dignity of people in every community, therefore they require a common, measured and sustainable response. I do not come here with pretensions, but each of us brings a valuable experience and a shared responsibility. Let’s continue the dialogue, build trust and strengthen cooperation in the spirit of understanding and humanity. I hope our discussion today is a small but significant step towards a more just and peaceful world for all.

May God’s peace and mercy be upon you.

Kaynak: prizrenpost