UK MPs urge government to adopt new definition of Islamophobia - Assalamu alaikum
Assalamu alaikum. Some well-known UK MPs have written to Steve Reed, the secretary of state for housing, communities and local government, asking him to accept a new definition of Islamophobia.
Recent figures for England and Wales show a 19% rise in hate crimes targeting Muslims over the past year. A group of about 40 MPs said adopting this definition would be an important measure to tackle anti-Muslim prejudice.
An independent working group of MPs set up in February worked on a definition aimed at addressing unacceptable treatment, prejudice, discrimination and hate against Muslims or anyone perceived to be Muslim. It was chaired by former attorney general Dominic Grieve and included people like Akeela Ahmed from the British Muslim Network.
The MPs’ letter notes the worrying rise in Islamophobia, saying that in 2025 nearly half of religious hate crimes were directed at Muslims and that Islamophobic incidents have increased sharply since 2023. They urged Reed to adopt the definition during Islamophobia Awareness Month after the working group sent in their report for consultation in October.
Some critics worry a formal definition could affect free speech, while supporters point out that current law (the 2010 Equality Act) doesn’t treat Muslims as a protected racial group, which limits protection from racial discrimination.
Shaista Gohir, who was on the working group, accused ministers of staying quiet about the growing anti-Muslim hate. MP Afzal Khan, who led the letter, said Muslims face the highest number of recorded religious hate crimes in the UK and warned of an aggressive shift in attitudes. He stressed the need for a strong definition that protects people without unduly restricting free speech.
The ministry said it is carefully considering the working group’s recommendations and will respond in due course.
May Allah protect our communities and guide those in authority to take decisions that ensure safety and justice for everyone.
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