Ugly Reports of Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism Linked to COVID-19 Crisis
Reports from different world regions describe a rise in hate speech, patterns of discrimination, and violent incidents linked to the COVID-19 crisis. Some focus on nationality or ethnic identity, but others target specific religious groups. Of particular concern are Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. In India, where tensions were already at a fever pitch, early cases of COVID-19 linked to gatherings of a Muslim missionary group have fueled anti-Muslim reactions. Tweets with the hashtag #CoronaJihad have gained traction online. Muslims report experiencing or fearing violence against them as they are collectively blamed for the virus. “There is always concern that people will be scapegoated in the face of a health crisis,” said Alexander Rosemberg, Anti-Defamation League (ADL) deputy regional director. The ADL has seen a spike in extremists using the coronavirus outbreak to spread noxious viral conspiracy theories and anti-Semitism.
Students of history highlight that discrimination and the speculation that surrounds pandemics can quickly lead to mass violence. Analysts urge vigilance and active efforts to counter them at every opportunity. As the virus emerged and evolved so too did conspiracy theories about its origins. A full 30% of Americans surveyed in a Pew poll still believe that coronavirus was grown in a lab, and 23% think it was created intentionally - despite compelling evidence from experts that this is not true. Some theories are erroneous but unharmful, but others stoke old fears and hatreds and may cause many to suffer from stigma or worse. People of Asian descent in many places are subjected to racist attacks linked to COVID-19, despite WHO guidance stressing "viruses infect all humans: when an outbreak happens, everyone is at risk, regardless of who they are or where they are from."
(Based on: March 25, 2020, Jerusalem Post article; April 3, 2020, Time article; April 7, 2020, Nature article; and April 13, 2020, MSN article)
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