The United Nations has appointed Spanish diplomat Miguel Ángel Moratinos as its first-ever Special Envoy to combat Islamophobia, marking a historic move to counter the global rise in anti-Muslim hatred. The new position reflects mounting international concern over the spread of discrimination and violence targeting Muslim communities across several regions.
Decades of Diplomatic Experience
Moratinos brings extensive experience to the role. He currently serves as the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations, an initiative focused on promoting intercultural understanding and countering extremism. His new mandate as Special Envoy will specifically address rising levels of anti-Muslim sentiment worldwide.
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From 2004 to 2010, Moratinos served as Spain’s Foreign Minister, where he worked closely with the United Nations on various peacebuilding and human rights initiatives. Before that, he was the European Union’s Special Representative for the Middle East Peace Process between 1996 and 2003, engaging in efforts to promote dialogue between Israel and Arab nations. In 1996, he also served as Spain’s ambassador to Israel.
Appointment Backed by Global Consensus
The position was established under UN General Assembly Resolution 78/264, passed unanimously in 2022. The resolution was led by Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and was co-sponsored by 60 OIC member states. It highlights the need for a global response to the surge in Islamophobia and calls for a coordinated strategy to uphold the rights of Muslim communities.
Welcoming the appointment, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, called it “a major milestone in the OIC’s efforts to combat Islamophobia and promote tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence.” He added that the appointment is both “timely and essential,” and confirmed Pakistan’s full support for the envoy’s mandate.
International Day to Combat Islamophobia
Each year on March 15, the UN observes the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. The date was officially recognized following the 2022 resolution and aims to spotlight the growing dangers of anti-Muslim rhetoric and violence.
Speaking on the occasion this year, Moratinos issued a stark warning about the consequences of hate speech and bigotry. “Hate speech drives a wedge between communities, sparks fear and anger, and may often lead to violence which threatens peace and stability in societies,” he said.
A Push for Inclusive Policies and Dialogue
Calling for a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of hatred, Moratinos stressed the importance of protecting minority rights and cultural identities. “This means pushing for policies that fully respect human rights and protect religious and cultural identities, particularly of minorities,” he said.
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He also highlighted the importance of social cohesion, urging governments and civil society to support initiatives that foster mutual respect and dialogue. “Investing in social cohesion and encouraging initiatives that promote dialogue, mutual respect, and protect the dignity of all is essential,” he stated.