ANTI-SHI’ISM- TERMINOLOGY AND HISTORY Prejudice against or hatred of Shia Muslims While the term “Anti-Shi’ism” was first introduced by Shia Rights Watch in 2011, the act of anti-Shi’ism, has a long history. Shia in History Shia have a long history in opposition to injustice. Ever since the death of the Prophet of Islam, Prophet Muhammad, Shia have faced discrimination due to their criticism of the Khalifas unjust and violent actionss. Shia would advocate non-violence and equal human rights for all; Khalifas on the other hand would continue their neglect of people’s basic human rights. The growth of these ideological differences led to the formation of anti- Shi’ism extremist groups, such as the Wahabbi, Salafi and Nasebi. Many Shia have lost their lives, freedom and dignity throughout history. All Shia Imams and their companions were murdered by either anti Shia groups or dictator kings. It can therefore be concluded that anti- Shi’ism has been a threat to Shia since the death of Prophet Muhammad. Current Situation In recent years, and with financial support of Saudi Arabia, Anti-Shi’ism has increased dramatically throughout the world. Demolition of Shia Shrines in Saudi Arabia, attacks on Shia homes in Bahrain, mass killings of Shia in Pakistan, road bombs in Shia populated areas of Syria and Iraq, and the bloodshed of Shia and Alawies in Damascus are among the most recent examples of anti –Shi’ism. Murder and homicides however, are not the only manifestation of anti- Shi’ism. Anti-Shi’ism is seen in other categories including, but not limited to:
Faith (Shia are considered non- believers (Kuffar),
Economic (Shia are unable to climb to high level of government jobs, nor can they hold critical positions in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia)
Social (Shia are excluded from the norm of the society in Malaysia)
Racism (Shia considered an inferior "race"),
Anti-Shi’ism: A Growing Phenomenon Anti-Shi’ism is gaining stronger holds in society; it is growing and spreading in many areas including media and human right organizations. Anti-Shi’ism and Media The most modern example of Anti-Shi’ism can be witnessed in the Media. Since the Arab Uprise, Shia have been threatened by extremists; thousands were murdered and injured, many Shia women and children have been arrested and tortured, and historical sites have been demolished and diminished, YET, Media remains quiet towards such inhumane acts against Shia. Anti-Shi’ism and Human Rights Organizations Since the beginning of the 2011 uprising, when Anti-Shi’ism began its mission in the Middle East, the SRW has contacted many human right organizations to take action and stop the violence against Shia, however no serious action was taken. As a result, the numbers of murders are increasing every day in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Syria and Pakistan. Those Injured in Syria and Bahrain have no access to medical facilities! Women and children have no security in Syria! In Saudi Arabia Shia cannot practice their basic human rights, they are considered second class citizens, and have absolutely no freedom! Also in Malaysia, Shia do not have the right to practice or teach their faith in public! YET, Human rights organizations prefer silence and do not get involved. SRW and Anti-Shi’ism SRW insists that the term “Anti-Shi’ism” must be used in regards to crimes against Shia. The crimes that are taking place around the world are serious unjust acts that threat the existence of Shia and their school of thought. These threads must be recognized and must be stopped immediately.