Qatari scholar accuses media, social networks of distorting Islam Photo

Islam is facing targeted discrimination both in legislation and public perception, with media and social networks acting as powerful tools in this process, according to a Qatari scholar Abdul Majeed Al-Najjar.

Al-Najjar, Vice-President of the International Union of Muslim Scholars in Qatar, made the remarks during a panel discussion at the international conference “Islamophobia in Focus: Unveiling Bias, Shattering Stigmas” held in Baku, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

“Modern media and social networks often distort Islam, shaping stereotypes and biased attitudes among the wider public towards a religion that actually preaches wisdom, justice, and peace,” he said.

Najjar highlighted that a significant cause of the rising Islamophobia is the public’s lack of knowledge about Islam. “Ignorance breeds fear and hatred. We see how the spread of misinformation increases prejudiced views and hostile acts against Muslims,” he added.

The Qatari scholar also expressed concern over the emergence of anti-Islam sentiments in some countries’ legislation.

“In France, for example, the ban on wearing the hijab is an attempt to restrict basic human rights under the guise of neutrality. Moreover, such measures enjoy support among some parts of the population, reflecting deeply entrenched prejudices,” he stressed.

Moreover, Imam Yahya Pallavicini, President of the Italian Islamic Religious Community (COREIS), stated that Azerbaijan has the potential to set a global example in the fight against Islamophobia.

“I have visited Azerbaijan several times. This conference demonstrates that Azerbaijan can become a model in the battle against Islamophobia. There is no place for double standards here,” Pallavicini said.

He criticised European powers for using their influence in ways that exacerbate Islamophobic sentiments worldwide.

“They forget that monotheistic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—all originated in the East and later spread to the West,” he noted.

Imam Pallavicini called for increased dialogue and mutual understanding among different faith communities to overcome prejudices and stereotypes.

By Aghakazim Guliyev