Mark McGhee believes the threats against Neil Lennon has only damaged Scotland's reputation further in the eyes of the rest of the United Kingdom.
It emerged this week that the Celtic boss was sent two parcel bombs and McGhee - who is based in Brighton after parting company with Aberdeen earlier this season - feels it is a sad state of affairs.
"Down there, people are aware of the size and the support that Rangers and Celtic get and are in awe of that," he said. "But, equally, they look at it and think 'what is going on up there?' It definitely undermines Scottish society in terms of the views it gives people down there to be critical."
However, the former Celtic striker does believe Scotland can rid itself of the problem of sectarianism one day.
He added: "I think we will. Things like this are moments where more can be done. It's another opportunity to deal with it a bit better, in educating our children in particular, within the schools and within society.
"We have to work harder with our own families to make sure they have a broad church of thoughts and beliefs.
"I don't think it's got worse. I think this incident is the lowest in terms of relating to football.
"But I think things have greatly improved, not only in Northern Ireland, but in the west of Scotland as well.
"I would say the majority of my friends, even when I was a Celtic player, are Rangers supporters.
"There is far more integration between the two sections than there was maybe 30 or 40 years ago. It's definitely better, this is an isolated incident."
Source: PA
