Global diplomacy head sounds alarm on state-endorsed Islamophobia, urges youth engagement

Martine Miller, President and CEO of the International Centre for Religion and Diplomacy (ICRD), has cautioned that Islamophobia has evolved into an official element of state policy in multiple countries, underscoring the urgent need for young people to actively engage in combating this pervasive prejudice.

Miller delivered the remarks while addressed the international conference titled “Islamophobia in Focus: Unveiling Bias, Shattering Stigmas,” held in Baku, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

She highlighted that Islamophobia manifests in various insidious forms, ranging from outright discrimination and violent attacks to widespread stigmatization perpetuated through traditional and social media channels. She warned that these attitudes distort the worldview of younger generations and hinder Muslims from feeling fully integrated and equal within society.

“These attitudes affect the worldview of young people and prevent Muslims from feeling like an equal part of society,” Miller stressed.

The ICRD president further noted that Islamophobia is not only a societal issue but has been institutionalized in certain nations, particularly those with colonial legacies.

“Some states with a colonial past are now using Islamophobia as a tool, and young people can become the object of manipulation,” she explained.

Miller emphasized the importance of educating youth to understand the true nature and implications of these dynamics to resist such exploitation.

By Vafa Guliyeva