ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed on respect for all religions and condemned hatred, discrimination and intolerance towards Muslims worldwide.

In a message on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the president drew attention to the rise in prejudice and violence faced by Muslim communities and to the need for tolerance and respect for religious diversity.

“Islam teaches peace, compassion and justice. It calls for respect for all humanity, regardless of faith, race or background. Attempts to link Islam with extremism or violence reflect ignorance and weaken efforts to promote dialogue and mutual understanding among civilisations,” he said.

“I call upon governments, civil society, media and faith leaders across the world to reject prejudice and work together through dialogue and lawful means. Respect for religious belief and equal protection under the law are not optional principles. They are obligations,” he reminded.

President Zardari said that Pakistan would continue to speak clearly and act consistently in support of these principles, at home and abroad.

The day also recalls the tragic events in Christchurch, which shocked the conscience of humanity. Islamophobia appears in many ways. Hate speech. Discrimination. Attacks on religious symbols and places of worship. Such acts violate fundamental human rights and run counter to the basic principle that all people deserve equal treatment under the law, he urged.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. Article 2 makes clear that everyone is entitled to these rights without distinction of any kind, including religion. These principles remain central to a just international order.

“Pakistan has ratified several human rights conventions. We speak out against Islamophobia at international meetings and conferences. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but it carries responsibility. It must not be used to incite hatred or division.

“The international community should strengthen legal safeguards against hate crimes and promote practical cooperation among faith leaders, educators and media organisations,” Mr Zardari emphasized.

Many Pakistanis live and work across the world. They run businesses, serve in hospitals, study in universities and contribute to their communities. When prejudice against Muslims grows, it affects their sense of safety and their prospects at work or in education. No one should be judged or excluded because of their faith, he said.

“In Pakistan, we make sure non-Muslims can access government services, schools, and jobs without barriers. Their voices should be heard in local councils and national debates. The federal cabinet has approved the interfaith harmony policy and the strategy of religious tolerance. Parliament has enacted the National Commission for Minorities’ Rights Act, 2025. An independent commission for minorities is now being set up to protect their rights and handle complaints,” President Zardari said.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for collective global efforts to counter hatred, prejudice and discrimination against Muslims on the eve of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia being observed tomorrow.

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, the PPP Chairman said in his message that Islamophobia is not only an attack on the dignity and rights of Muslims but also a threat to the universal values of tolerance, coexistence and mutual respect among nations and communities.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized that the international community must take meaningful steps to confront rising intolerance, protect religious freedoms and promote dialogue among cultures and faiths. He said the teachings of Islam stand for peace, compassion and justice, and must never be distorted by hatred or prejudice.

Chairman urged the world to work together to build societies rooted in respect, harmony and equality, where people of all faiths can live with dignity and security.

Published in Dawn, March 15th, 2026