March 15: A day to honour Islam's dignity and combat Islamophobia
Pakistan
The date commemorates the tragic Christchurch mosque attacks in New Zealand
LAHORE (Muhammed Ahmed Arqum) - March 15 holds profound significance in upholding the dignity and respect of Islam.
The Pakistan government has designated this day as the World Day Against Islamophobia. This initiative highlights the shared duty of both the state and society to safeguard the honour of the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him), a principle deeply rooted in Islamic teachings.
WHAT IS ISLAMOPHOBIA?
Islamophobia - defined as fear, prejudice, or hostility towards Islam and Muslims - has become a pressing global issue, threatening social cohesion, human dignity, and peace.
Observing this day serves as a crucial reminder of the need to counter discrimination and foster interfaith understanding.
UN RECOGNITION OF THE DAY
The choice of March 15 is tied to the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, which the United Nations officially recognised in 2022 to address the rising trend of anti-Muslim sentiment worldwide.
The date commemorates the tragic Christchurch mosque attacks in New Zealand on March 15, 2019, where 51 Muslim worshippers lost their lives during Friday prayers.
PAKISTAN’S CALL TO ACTION
On March 15, 2022, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously passed a resolution introduced by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Munir Akram, on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Also Read: UNGA passes Pakistan's resolution to observe International Day against Islamophobia
Three years hence, Munir Akram has once again underscored the need to tackle Islamophobia at every level. He says several countries voiced support to the need for safeguarding Islam’s sanctity and it’s time to materialise these commitments.
He says a decision to have special ambassador for the purpose will be announced soon.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the international community, human rights organisations, and global leaders to raise awareness against the scourge of Islamophobia.
In his message, he emphasies the need to prevent incidents of desecration of the Holy Quran, attacks against mosques, and other acts of religious intolerance against Muslims.
A key figure behind this global recognition was former prime minister Imran Khan (2018-2022), who played a pivotal role in raising awareness about Islamophobia on international platforms.
Pakistan took a firm stance against the rising wave of anti-Muslim sentiment, advocating for stronger global measures to protect the dignity of Islam and its followers.
The diplomatic efforts led to the formal recognition of March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia by the United Nations.
A GLORIOUS MESSAGE
The Holy Quran repeatedly emphasises the supreme status of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and commands believers to show him the highest respect.
Allah Almighty says in the Quran: “Indeed, We have sent you as a witness [over deeds], as a bearer of glad tidings, and as a warner. In order that you may believe in Allah and His Messenger and that you assist and honor him and that you glorify [His] praises morning and evening..” (Surah Al-Fath 48:8-9).
