A statement on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia — 15 March 2026
In his 2026 message, António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, warned that Muslims in many societies continue to face discrimination, socio-economic exclusion, biased immigration policies, and unwarranted surveillance and profiling. Such conditions are often fueled by anti-Muslim rhetoric and hate speech that can lead to harassment and violence against individuals and places of worship. The Secretary-General also recalled his appointment of Miguel Ángel Moratinos Cuyaubé as United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, strengthening the UN’s collective response.







