The Department of Information and Knowledge Technologies at the College of Arts at the University of Basrah organized a panel discussion entitled Islamophobia or fear of Islam.
The panel discussion, which was lectured by Dr. Bassam Abdullah Abdul Jabbar, included addressing the link between Islam and terrorism and how to address this phenomenon. In addition, there are some Western and American studies that address Islamophobia and social media that promote Islamophobia. There are also digital and electronic games, children stories, cartoons, and movies that promote Islamophobia. There are also psychological effects on children, youth, and families of Muslim communities in Europe and America. We mentioned some recommendations that limit the phenomenon of Islamophobia.
The panel reached several points, the most important of which are:
1. Enhancing media awareness: Demanding that the media provide balanced and professional coverage of Muslims and Islam, and avoid spreading negative stereotypes that lead to the promotion of Islamophobia.
2. Encouraging interfaith and intercultural dialogue: Supporting dialogue programmes and initiatives that bring together different communities with the aim of understanding each other’s cultures and addressing fears and misconceptions.
3. Develop comprehensive educational curricula: Incorporate topics related to different cultures and religions, including Islam, into educational curricula to promote a deeper understanding of cultural and religious diversity.
4. Enact laws to combat discrimination and hatred: Urge governments to enforce strict laws that criminalize hate speech and religious discrimination against Muslims or any other religious groups.
5. Support local initiatives: Encourage local communities to organize more activities.
