Greater Action Needed to Address Anti-Muslim Intolerance, Says OSCE

Photo by Janko Ferlic

HELSINKI/WARSAW/ANKARA, March 15, 2025 – Stronger and more coordinated efforts are necessary to combat the growing issue of anti-Muslim prejudice and violence, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) stated today in recognition of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

“This day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to stand against hate and discrimination in all forms,” said OSCE Chair-in-Office and Finnish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen. “We must work collectively to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their faith or beliefs, can live free from fear, bias, and violence. The OSCE remains fully committed to fighting anti-Muslim sentiment and fostering inclusive societies based on respect and understanding.”

The OSCE highlighted that anti-Muslim intolerance is not only an issue of individual prejudice but also a systemic problem that is reinforced by political and institutional structures. The normalization of anti-Muslim rhetoric in media and public discourse, along with dehumanizing language, has contributed to an environment that fuels hatred and violence.

“To effectively counter anti-Muslim bias, political leaders and influential figures must publicly condemn it whenever and wherever it occurs,” stated Maria Telalian, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. “It is also important to recognize the disproportionate impact of anti-Muslim discrimination on women and girls. Governments bear the primary responsibility for tackling this issue, and the OSCE is committed to implementing measures that address violence and discrimination against Muslims.”

The organization also noted that online platforms have amplified the spread of anti-Muslim hate speech, making digital spaces increasingly unsafe for affected communities. In addition, civil society groups, scholars, and advocacy organizations working to combat this form of intolerance often face harassment, verbal attacks, and attempts to undermine their efforts.

Ambassador Evren Dağdelen Akgün, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chair-in-Office on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims, emphasized that anti-Muslim bias extends beyond acts of violence and discrimination. “Harmful stereotypes and misleading narratives work to undermine the dignity and cultural identity of Muslim communities,” she said. “Addressing these challenges comprehensively is crucial not just for the well-being of Muslim populations, but also for fostering cohesive and resilient societies worldwide.”

The United Nations has officially designated March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia to highlight and counter discrimination faced by Muslims globally. All OSCE participating States have committed to opposing anti-Muslim bias, promoting religious freedom, and ensuring protection against discrimination.

On March 13 and 14, a high-level event was held in Brussels, organized by the European Commission in collaboration with the Council of Europe. Bringing together representatives, special envoys, and ambassadors, the meeting focused on strategies to combat anti-Muslim hatred, racism, and discrimination. Participants expressed deep concern over the increasing wave of intolerance and reaffirmed their commitment to tackling this issue at national and international levels.