Qatar Participates in 2nd International Conference to Combat Discrimination Against Islam and Muslim

Cairo: The State of Qatar participated in the Second International Conference to Combat Discrimination Against Islam and Muslims, which opened at the headquarters of the League of Arab States in Cairo under the theme "Islamophobia: Concept and Practice in the Current Global Context." 

Qatar was represented by Dr. Yousef Al Siddiqi, Member of the Board of Directors of the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue (DICID), and Amna Abdulrahman Al Sulaiti from Qatar's Permanent Mission to the Arab League. 

The two-day conference brings together representatives of governments, regional and international organisations, religious institutions, civil society organisations and youth to discuss practical ways to combat discrimination, hate speech and Islamophobia while promoting dialogue, coexistence and mutual respect. 

Participants are examining several key themes, including the role of religious institutions and Islamic centres in promoting moderate religious discourse, as well as national, regional and international best practices for countering hate speech and discrimination against Islam and Muslims. The discussions also focus on the contribution of educational institutions in fostering tolerance, acceptance of others and intercultural understanding. 

The conference further highlights the role of civil society organisations in combating discrimination and explores ways to empower young people to promote the values of coexistence and mutual respect. It also seeks to strengthen cooperation among stakeholders engaged in dialogue between civilisations and the promotion of religious tolerance. 

A key feature of the event is the inaugural meeting of a permanent multilateral institutional platform to combat discrimination against Islam and Muslims. The platform aims to enhance coordination among regional and international institutions and translate the conference's recommendations into practical programmes and initiatives that address hate speech and encourage peaceful coexistence. 

Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Dr. Yousef Al Siddiqi said the conference provides an important opportunity to exchange perspectives, strengthen mutual understanding and present the true image of Islam and Muslims. He stressed that, in an era shaped by rapid technological advancement and social media, it is increasingly important to communicate authentic information and encourage constructive dialogue among communities worldwide. 

Dr. Al Siddiqi also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue in promoting dialogue among religions and cultures through conferences, academic initiatives and cooperation with international partners, reaffirming Qatar's commitment to advancing tolerance, peaceful coexistence and respect for cultural and religious diversity.