Islamophobia report response lauded as ‘important step’
Advocates believe a ground-breaking report into Islamophobia is an “unprecedented and important step” towards addressing the serious impacts of hatred facing the Muslim community.
The federal government has committed to implementing 35 of the 54 recommendations outlined in the report by special envoy to combat Islamophobia, Aftab Malik.
Measures to promote social cohesion in education, including workplace training for politicians and civil servants, as well as a review to strengthen religious and racial tolerance, are among a range of measures adopted by the government.
Yet Mr. Malik’s calls for an independent review of anti-terrorism laws and the establishment of a commission of inquiry into Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab racism have gone unanswered 10 months after the report was first handed over to the government.
“Muslim Australians should not be expected to bear the cost of this complexity indefinitely. Where the government takes action, I will support that progress,” he said as the report was published on Saturday.
“Where the proposals remain outstanding, I will continue to defend them.”
Advocates of the peak body say the government’s response is welcome but believe more needs to be done, including practical improvements that will lead to lasting systemic change.
“This is an unprecedented and important step in the right direction towards recognizing and addressing the serious impact of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred,” the Alliance of Australian Muslims and the National Imams Council of Australia said in a joint statement. he said.
“Australian Muslims should be able to see and experience real improvements in their safety, protection, inclusion and ability to fully participate in Australian society without fear of discrimination or hostility.”
Community members should not feel unsafe or unwelcome; Advocates insist that clear commitments, adequate resources, and effective accountability can deliver lasting change.
The government has committed to creating an education task force aimed at combating Islamophobia in society.
There will also be targeted funding to improve the safety and security of Muslim institutions, including $41.9 million across initiatives to improve security at faith-based venues.
The measures are set to build on existing extensive government-wide work to combat Islamophobia.
A focused review of the Australian Curriculum will also be undertaken to identify opportunities to strengthen understanding of all forms of hate, including Islamophobia.
Multicultural Affairs Minister Anne Aly said on Saturday that the response was a turning point, adding that it was the first recognition by the government that Islamophobia was an urgent threat to society.
“It is dangerously close to normality and is having traumatic, harmful and long-lasting effects on a significant number of Australians,” he said.
“Islamophobia is harmful and causes lasting damage to individuals, communities and the social fabric of our country.”
