MCE to Co-Organize in Conference on Combating Islamophobia

The Muslim Council of Elders is set to participate in the 3rd International Conference on Combating Islamophobia, themed “Islamophobia in Focus: Unveiling Bias, Shattering Stigmas,” scheduled for May 26–27, 2025, in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

The conference, organized by the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre (BIMC), the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), and the Baku Initiative Group, in collaboration with various international partners will convene global scholars, religious leaders, and policymakers to address the pressing issue of Islamophobia around the world.

Featuring experts from nearly 40 countries, the conference will feature a diverse array of sessions addressing critical facets of Islamophobia, with the aim of fostering comprehensive and practical discussions as well as actionable strategies to counter hate crimes, systemic discrimination, and media biases targeting Muslims and Muslim-majority countries. 

The conference will also feature the launch of an observatory platform (https://anti-muslimhatred.com) to monitor global Islamophobia trends and the presentation of a comprehensive report to guide international organizations in their efforts.

Representing the Muslim Council of Elders, Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research and a member of the Council’s Executive Office, will participate in the session titled “Youth Voices for Inclusion: Tackling Prejudice and Misconceptions” on Tuesday May 27. Dr. Boudinar will deliver a presentation titled “Creating More Opportunities to Address Islamophobia: The Role of Youth in Institutions” which will highlight the critical role of youth in fostering inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and promoting interfaith dialogue to counter Islamophobia.