Important Facts For Prelims
International Day to Combat Islamophobia
- 17 Mar 2022
- 3 min read
Why in News?
Recently, the UN General Assembly approved a resolution for setting March 15th as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
- The resolution was introduced by Pakistan on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
- Though the resolution has been passed at UNGA, India has highlighted several concerns.
What are the Key Points of the Resolution?
- The resolution, adopted by consensus by the 193-member world body and cosponsored by 55 mainly Muslim countries.
- The resolution asks all countries, U.N. bodies, international and regional organisations, civil society, private sector and faith-based organisations “to organise and support various high-visibility events aimed at effectively increasing awareness of all levels about curbing Islamophobia.
- The resolution emphasizes the right to freedom of religion and belief and recalls a 1981 resolution calling for “the elimination of all forms of intolerance and of discrimination based on religion or belief”.
What is India’s Stand?
- India expressed concern over phobia against one religion being elevated to the level of an international day, saying there are growing contemporary forms of religiophobia, especially anti-Hindu, anti-Buddhist and anti-Sikh phobias.
- It also cited that that word ‘pluralism’ finds no mention in the resolution.
- India hopes the resolution adopted "does not set a precedent" which will lead to multiple resolutions on phobias based on selective religions and divide the United Nations into religious camps.
- The term Islamophobia does not have any agreed definition in international law, contrary to the freedom of religion or belief.
What is International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief?
- Earlier in 2019, UNGA has also passed a resolution to celebrate August 22nd, International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief.
- Its resolution envisages recognizing the importance of providing victims of acts of violence based on religion or belief and members of their families with appropriate support and assistance in accordance with applicable law.
PYQ
Consider the following statements:
1. 21st February is declared to be the International Mother Language Day by UNICEF.
2. The demand that Bangla has to be one of the national languages was raised in the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
