| “There is no place in Australia for the language of extermination and hate. This is not free speech; it is hate speech of ...â€-Dr Rateb Jneid |
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AFIC Condemns Islamophobic Hate Speech and Calls for Accountability
05/05/2025
(See translation in Arabic section)
Sydney-Middle East Times Int'l: The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) strongly condemns the vile, dehumanising and Islamophobic rhetoric circulating on social media, including a recent post by former Senator Nova Perris, that describe Muslims as “Satan worshipping cockroaches†who “need to be eradicated,†accompanied by offensive and inflammatory cartoons.
Such language is not merely offensive—it is dangerous. Dehumanising rhetoric has historically paved the way for violence, persecution, and genocide. It corrodes the very foundations of a multicultural, democratic society and undermines the safety and dignity of millions of Australians who are proud members of the Muslim faith.
AFIC President Dr. Rateb Jneid expressed deep concern at the normalisation of such hateful speech in Australian public discourse:
“There is no place in Australia for the language of extermination and hate. This is not free speech; it is hate speech of the most extreme and dangerous kind. To refer to Muslims—or any group—as cockroaches who must be eradicated is the same rhetoric used to justify the Rwandan genocide. It must be unequivocally condemned by all responsible leaders and institutions.â€
In light of the federal election result, AFIC notes that the Australian people have decisively rejected the politics of division, fear, and dog-whistling. The resounding mandate delivered to the new government sends a clear message, Australians want leadership that unites, not rhetoric that divides.
We call on all political leaders, public figures, and media organizations to:
1.   Condemn this rhetoric publicly and unequivocally.
2.   Hold individuals spreading such messages accountable, including through appropriate legal and institutional measures.
3.   Commit to upholding the values of respect, inclusion, and equality that underpin our democracy.
AFIC stands with all Australians who believe in a nation where diversity is a strength, not a threat. We will continue to work with government, civil society, and communities to challenge Islamophobia and all forms of hate wherever they appear.
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AFIC, established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim community.
Authorised:
Dr Rateb Jneid, President
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