The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution proclaiming 15 March as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia on Tuesday.

Pakistan's UN Envoy, Munir Akram, introducing the resolution calling for establishing the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, said Islamophobia has emerged as a new form of racism that includes, among others, discriminatory travel bans, hate speech and the targeting of girls and women for their dress. 

The text called for expanded international efforts to create a global dialogue that will encourage tolerance and peace centered on respect for human rights and the diversity of religions and beliefs.

The representative of Guyana said the designation of an international day is an important way to counter Islamophobia and its negative trends, such as limited access to housing, education and employment. Global action will help counter increasing acts of violence against Muslims and Muslim communities around the world, she said. (ILKHA)