Unfortunately, Islamophobia has become an undeniable truth over time, and its expressions primarily include hate speech, prejudice, and physical harm inflicted upon Muslims, which unfortunately persist in various regions of the world.

Pakistan has been expressing its deep concern about the rapidly growing threat of Islamophobia and its linkage to terrorism, on various international platforms for a considerable time. It urges the global community to take necessary measures to address this critical issue.

Against the consequent rise of Islamophobia in the Western world, the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on March 15, 2022, designating it as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, with the support of all members

The resolution brought forward by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), was unanimously adopted, and is a commendable step in the right direction. It was undoubtedly a moral triumph for the Muslim community.

While the UNGA resolution was largely received with appreciation, regrettably, it was not given due consideration by the governments and citizens of Western nations. As evidenced by incidents of Quran desecration and other forms of Islamophobia, the issue remains prevalent.The continued publication of blasphemous sketches and cartoons of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him), along with hate speeches, is a recurring source of pain and sorrow for the Muslim community. The Holy Quran and the Holy Prophet (PBUH) hold the utmost significance and sacredness for them.

Western nations frequently proclaim their commitment to religious freedom and safeguarding fundamental human rights on various occasions. However, when it comes to their own societies, they seem to fall short of these values they claim to uphold. The increasing occurrences of Islamophobic incidents and actions reveal an unsettling trend of religious intolerance that remains prevalent in the Western society.

It is evident that this deplorable act has caused offense to millions of Muslims globally. They are understandably outraged by the desecration, which is considered a direct affront to their faith. It goes without saying that Muslims can tolerate most things, but the desecration of the Holy Quran is not one of them.

The writer is a student of BS Journalism studies at Punjab University and can be reached at:[email protected].