(30 November 2023 to 1 December 2023) Agenda Item: Challenges to Inclusion & Equality submitted by: International Foundation Witnesses Ashoora Mr. President Islamophobia has a demonstrably negative impact on the lives of Muslims around the world, especially when they are a minority in Western parts of the world. Muslims’ experiences of religious and racial discrimination are associated with poor mental health and social wellbeing. The widespread fear of hate crime, particularly following negative portrayals of Islam in the media, is also common amongst Muslim minorities in European countries. - Many European Muslims, especially young people, face obstacles to their social advancement. And racism, discrimination and social marginalization are serious threats to integration and community cohesion. Muslims generally have a high unemployment rate. Migrants, including those from Muslim countries, generally appear to suffer from poorer housing conditions and comparatively greater vulnerability and insecurity in relation to their housing status. Poor educational attainment is another factor in the discrimination faced by European Muslims Mr. President In a world of increasing bigotry against all who are "different" from the favored norms of the powerful, we must hold accountable those who seek to divide us and affirm the equality of all people regardless of religion or belief. The international community must fulfil its promise of an inclusive, open society. I thank you