Jordan highlights urgent need to promote tolerance on International Day to combat Islamophobia

AMMAN — On the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Director of the Human Rights Unit at the Prime Minister Office Khalil Abdalat highlighted the urgent need to confront hate speech and extremism while fostering justice, tolerance, and mutual respect.

"As discrimination against Muslims continues to rise globally, we must strengthen international cooperation to safeguard fundamental rights for all people, regardless of their faith or cultural heritage," Abdallat told the Jordan News Agency, Petra, in an interview.

Abdallat highlighted the pivotal role of Jordan's Hashemite leadership, particularly His Majesty King Abdullah, in championing Islam's authentic image as a religion of compassion, tolerance, and justice.

He pointed to the landmark Amman Message of 2004 as a cornerstone initiative that clarified Islam's core principles, rejected extremism, and promoted Muslim unity while respecting intellectual and religious diversity.

"Under His Majesty's guidance, Jordan has established a steadfast approach to fighting hatred and intolerance," said Abdallat. 

"We've cultivated a culture of dialogue and openness that reflects Islamic principles that naturally align with international human rights frameworks," he added.

Jordan's policies actively protect religious and intellectual pluralism while countering extremist ideologies through initiatives that reinforce moderation and peaceful coexistence, Abdallat said. 

The Kingdom's historic role in safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem further demonstrates the Hashemite commitment to religious respect and justice, he highlighted.

"Islam fundamentally highlights human equality and dignity," Abdallat explained, quoting from the Amman Message: "Justice is the foundation of governance in Islam, encompassing fairness for all without exception, based on equality before the law and respect for human rights."

He stressed that confronting Islamophobia extends beyond protecting Muslims from discrimination it represents part of a broader global responsibility to combat all forms of hatred and extremism while building bridges of understanding between diverse communities.

Abdallat concluded by calling for unified international action against hatred and for the advancement of shared human values, suggesting the Hashemite approach as a model for defending human rights and establishing principles that foster peaceful, harmonious societies.