From Norms to Action: Addressing Islamophobia and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief – the Nexus to Human Rights

Concept Note Programme Watch Live

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)/Office of the United Nations Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, in collaboration with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), are convening a high-level event entitled “From Norms to Action: Addressing Islamophobia and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief – the Nexus to Human Rights.”

The event will take place on Monday, 16 March 2026, from 14:30 to 18:00, in the ECOSOC Chamber at United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Further to the United Nations General Assembly resolution 76/254, declaring March 15 as the “International Day to Combat Islamophobia” and in line with the United Nations General Assembly resolution 78/264 on “Measures to Combat Islamophobia”, the high-level event will aim to provide a balanced and inclusive platform for dialogue among Member States, the United Nations system and non-State stakeholders, grounded in existing international human rights norms and standards. It is envisioned that the event will include the opening segment, several thematic panels and a closing segment, featuring speakers from the United Nations system, representatives of United Nations Member States and experts that cover Human Rights, racial discrimination and discrimination based on religion or belief.