Organisation of Islamic Cooperation expresses concern over rising hate speech in SL

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in a statement yesterday said it had been closely monitoring the situation of Muslims in Sri Lanka and remained concerned about the rise in incidents of intimidation, anti-Muslim rhetoric and hate speech promulgated by certain groups in the country.

In line with the Final Communique of the 14th Islamic Summit Conference of OIC Heads of State, which took place in Makkah on 31 May, the OIC reiterated the call on the authorities in Sri Lanka to counter firmly the spread of rhetoric of hatred and intolerance, while ensuring the security and safety of the Muslim community in that country. Muslims represent an important and active community, which contributes positively to the cultural and economic life of Sri Lanka as a whole.

The OIC reiterated its firm stance against terrorism and extremism in all its forms and manifestations, noting that terrorism had no religion and that no community should be held responsible for the actions of extremists.

The OIC appreciated the recent efforts by the President and the Prime Minister to meet with the Ambassadors of OIC countries in Colombo.

The organisation encouraged all political leaders in Sri Lanka to take proactive measures to promote dialogue, peace and, harmony among all communities and prevent the stigmatisation or marginalisation of people based on ethnicity or religion.