“There is no doubt that while many Muslim communities are well-integrated throughout Europe, contributing to civic life and being appreciated for it, there remain many instances of prejudice, discrimination and even violence targeted against Muslim people because of their faith. Following recent and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, many countries have recorded a sharp spike in this kind of racism and, indeed, in antisemitic crimes too. This is profoundly wrong, and we must do everything possible to stop it, using our own tools and working together to ensure the safety, security, and dignity of every Muslim, like every other European. That is my purpose in convening this meeting”, declared Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić while opening the first Co-ordination Meeting on Combating Anti-Muslim Hatred and Discrimination.
The event, co-hosted by the Council of Europe and the European Commission, gathers Co-ordinators, Special Representatives, Envoys and Ambassadors from member states and leading international organisations. The two-day meeting also marks the International Day to combat Anti-Muslim racism (15 March).
Speech by the Secretary General
