UNITED NATIONS (CHATNEWSTV) — The United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom and denounced all forms of hate crime at a UN General Assembly meeting marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
“No-one should be targeted because of their faith,” UK Ambassador Archie Young said Friday.
Speaking at the United Nations in New York, Young underscored the UK’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and protecting religious freedoms. “We unequivocally condemn incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence, wherever this occurs, and we denounce hatred on the basis of religion or belief,” he said.
Young acknowledged the global rise in religious intolerance, citing increases in Islamophobia and antisemitism. The UK government, he noted, has committed over £1 million this year to monitor Islamophobia and support victims of anti-Muslim hate crimes.
The government has also established a new working group to define and address anti-Muslim hate. “This definition will help us better understand, quantify, and tackle anti-Muslim hate crime while safeguarding freedom of expression,” Young said.
Interfaith dialogue remains central to the UK’s strategy. Young highlighted recent funding for projects fostering religious understanding, including the UK’s Faith and Belief Forum.
“There is still much work to be done,” he said. “Today is a reminder that we must work individually and collectively to build understanding and fight against hatred.”
