Muslims in the UK are facing rising hostility and discrimination, with almost half of religious hate crimes targeted at Muslims, this is at a record level. Many in the Muslim community feel unsafe, unheard, or unsure whether the hostility they face will be recognised or addressed. This hostility also affects people perceived to be Muslim, too. Until now, there hasn’t been a clear, shared way of describing what anti-Muslim hostility actually is.
The Government appointed an independent working group in 2025 to look at this issue. We have adopted a new non- statutory (not legal) definition to help provide clarity and support further action to tackle anti-Muslim hostility.
This definition is about protecting people, not religions. It does not limit rights to free speech or stop people raising concerns in the public interest. Instead, it aims to bring clarity, recognition and support to Muslim communities, and be a useful tool for organisations across sectors.
❔Why a definition is needed
45% of all religious hate crimes are targeted at Muslims - more than any other faith group, and there is significant underreporting. This has a huge impact on communities. Without a clear definition, it is hard to understand, measure or address anti-Muslim hostility. Different organisations often interpret or record incidents differently, leading to inconsistency. Many Muslims say they are unsure how to report hostility, or doubt they will be taken seriously.✅ What the definition does
1. Validates experiences
It acknowledges the real, specific, and targeted hostility faced by Muslims today. For many, simply having that recognised by government is an important step that builds trust and confidence.
2. Provides clarity and consistency
The definition provides a clear reference point so that organisations and communities understand what constitutes anti-Muslim hostility and where the boundaries lie.
3. Helps organisations know how to respond
Different organisations and businesses can use the definition to strengthen their policies, recording, training, and responses to incidents.
4. Protects free speech
The definition does not restrict rights to free speech and the text accompanying the definition clearly safeguards legitimate expression. The definition does not ban criticism of religion, discussion of religious practices, or raising concerns about individuals or organisations.
5. Ensures fairness across the country
A consistent definition will help to reduce confusion and supports more equal treatment for everyone wherever they live.
❌ What the definition does not do
It is not legally binding and does not change or override the law. It does not affect sentencing or create any new crimes. It does not prevent raising concerns in the public interest. It is not about protecting a religion from criticism, only protecting people from targeted hostility.Why this matters
This definition is one part of a wider government effort to tackle anti-Muslim hostility, improve cohesion, and make sure every person, including every Muslim in the UK, is safe and feels safe. It can’t solve the problem on its own. But by giving victims and communities a voice, and providing organisations with clarity, it is a practical step toward a safer, more tolerant society.
https://mhclgmedia.blog.gov.uk/2026/03/10/anti-muslim-hostility-definition/
seen at 14:43, 10 March in MHCLG in the Media.