UN Secretary-General António Guterres marks International Day to Combat Islamophobia on 15 March

Key facts

• The International Day to Combat Islamophobia is observed on 15 March.
• UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the world’s 2 billion Muslims reflect vast global diversity.
• Guterres highlighted institutional discrimination, socioeconomic exclusion, biased immigration policies, and unwarranted surveillance against Muslims.
• He warned that anti-Muslim rhetoric and hate can lead to harassment and violence against individuals and places of worship.
• Governments were urged to take concrete steps to address hate speech, protect religious freedom, and ensure compliance with international human rights law.
• Online platforms were asked to eliminate hate speech and harassment based on religion or belief.
• In May 2025, the UN Secretary-General appointed the High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.