Trade and Trust in the Face of Bias and Injustice
Examining the Impact of Discrimination on Trade and Business Relations
A recent incident I faced with customs highlights more than personal inconvenience - it sheds light on the broader implications of systemic biases and their impact on our society, including trade and economic relations.
It’s Not Just About Passports
Trinidad and Tobago – So there we were, fresh from the spiritual heights of Umrah, only to land back home and be greeted with our names booming by announcements: “Abraar Alli, (and two other names called) —step forward!”
It felt like a game show, but instead of prizes, we got a front-row escort through immigration and a polite grilling from customs officers bypassing about 200 curious onlookers. While the officers were professional and cordial (no complaints there as I genuinely thought I was a VIP, maybe I am!), the whole scene was a reminder of a much bigger issue—why does it so often feel like Muslims are being singled out?
A Pattern That’s No Laughing Matter
Jokes aside, this incident is part of a troubling trend. Muslims in around the world are increasingly finding themselves on the receiving end of extra “attention” in public spaces, workplaces, and yes, even at the airport. These moments might seem isolated, but together, they paint a concerning picture of systemic Islamophobia. It’s something we can’t ignore, and we all need to work towards creating a society where everyone, regardless of faith, feels treated equally.
When people are unjustly singled out based on their faith or appearance, the repercussions go beyond the immediate moment. For traders, entrepreneurs, and professionals, these experiences erode confidence in the systems that should protect fairness and impartiality.
The perception that Muslims are disproportionately targeted by officials or other institutions fosters a climate of distrust and hesitancy in engaging with trade and business activities.
How Bias Impacts Trade
Hindrance to Business Travel: Frequent questioning and targeted scrutiny discourage individuals from pursuing international opportunities. Entrepreneurs and traders, essential to fostering economic growth, may avoid certain markets altogether due to fear of harassment.
Perception of Vulnerability: When a group feels that systemic biases target them, it undermines their ability to engage in trade confidently. Perceptions of unfair treatment ripple across communities, affecting partnerships and collaborations. Furthermore, such incidents don’t just end with personal discomfort; they cast a shadow on the victim's professional and business relationships. Traders, clients, or collaborators may begin to perceive the victim as a liability, suspecting that there might be an underlying issue. Even if no wrongdoing exists, the mere doubt raised by these experiences can be enough to make business partners hesitant to engage, undermining trust and damaging professional reputations. This ripple effect goes beyond individuals, affecting entire networks and communities in the process
Global Ramifications: Trinidad and Tobago, as a trading nation, thrives on trust and reputation. When such biases are perceived in our systems, it tarnishes our image internationally and creates barriers for our entrepreneurs to engage with foreign investors or partners.
Trust in Allah and Advocacy for Justice
As Muslims, we firmly place our trust in Allah. We believe that sustenance, success, and opportunities are in His hands. However, our faith also calls us to act against injustice and challenge biases that perpetuate harm. Trust in Allah is not passive; it is active reliance coupled with effort.
The injustices that govern society, whether in customs, law enforcement, or workplaces, must be addressed head-on. Biases create divides where bridges are needed. As a nation that prides itself on its diversity and unity, we must work collectively to ensure fairness and equity in every sphere, including trade.
A Call to Action
To rebuild confidence and eliminate barriers, the following steps are necessary:
Transparency in Processes: Officials and institutions must adopt transparent, unbiased methods of operation.
Sensitization and Training: Agencies need regular education on cultural and religious diversity to prevent discriminatory behaviour.
Equal Opportunity in Trade: The government must create an environment where every individual feels empowered to engage in economic activities without fear of bias or harassment.
As I reflect on my recent experience, I am reminded of the words of the Quran:
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Quran 4:58)
This verse is a powerful reminder of the responsibility we all share—to uphold justice and fairness in every aspect of our lives. While we trust Allah for our provisions, we also have a duty to ensure that the systems governing us reflect the values of equity and dignity that define us as a people.
Let us commit to building a society where trust is not just placed in Allah but is also mirrored in the systems that serve us. Only then can we achieve true progress and prosperity for all.