The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) has officially reached out to Prime Minister Albanese, expressing deep concerns over the increasing incidents of Islamophobia across Australia. In a detailed letter, AFIC has highlighted the urgent need for the government to take decisive action to combat this growing issue and to ensure the safety and respect of the Muslim community nationwide.
Dr. Rateb Jneid, President of AFIC, stated, “In our correspondence, we have urged the Prime Minister to recognise the severity of Islamophobia which has not only heightened fears within our community but also risks the fundamental principles of diversity and inclusivity that Australia stands for. We have noted a concerning disparity in the government’s responses to incidents of Islamophobia compared to other forms of racial or religious discrimination.”
AFIC’s letter to the Prime Minister calls for:
- Immediate and robust government initiatives to combat Islamophobia.
- Strong public condemnations of Islamophobic incidents to reaffirm the government’s commitment to protecting all citizens.
- Enhanced engagement with Islamic communities to foster better understanding and cooperation.
“The Australian Muslim community is an integral part of this nation’s fabric,” Dr. Jneid emphasised. “Yet, the lack of a strong political response to recent Islamophobic attacks is causing our community to question whether it is seen as part of this nation by our political leaders. It is crucial that our government acts now not only to prevent further acts of hatred but to foster a culture of genuine inclusivity and respect.”
AFIC is awaiting a response from the Prime Minister and hopes that this will mark the beginning of meaningful dialogue and action to address these critical issues. The organization remains committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to ensure that all Australians, regardless of their faith, can live in a safe and harmonious environment.
AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President