The UK government has announced a new non-statutory definition of anti-Muslim hostility aimed at helping public bodies and organizations better identify and address violence, harassment, and prejudicial stereotyping targeting Muslims. The Communities Secretary, Steve Reed, presented the definition to Parliament, emphasizing its use as a tool to measure and prevent hate crimes without restricting free speech.
Details of the Anti-Muslim Hostility Definition
The definition describes anti-Muslim hostility as intentionally engaging in or encouraging criminal acts such as violence, vandalism, harassment, or intimidation directed at Muslims or those perceived to be Muslim based on religion, ethnicity, race, or appearance. It also includes prejudicial stereotyping and unlawful discrimination designed to disadvantage Muslims in public and economic life. This advisory definition replaces the previously used term “Islamophobia” with “anti-Muslim hostility” to better capture these actions.
Alongside the definition, the government clarified that freedom of speech remains protected by law, including the right to criticize or ridicule beliefs, even if that portrayal is disrespectful or offensive to some adherents.
Context and Government Response
Hate crimes against Muslims in England and Wales rose nearly 20% to 3,199 offences in the year ending March 2025, according to government statistics, excluding incidents recorded separately by the Metropolitan Police. Jewish communities experienced the highest rate of hate crimes during this period, followed by Muslim communities.
The government established a working group last year, led by former Conservative minister Dominic Grieve, to form the new definition. In support of the initiative, the British Muslim Trust called it a crucial guide for institutions to respond more effectively to anti-Muslim hostility.
To facilitate understanding and implementation, the government will appoint a special representative on anti-Muslim hostility to engage with communities. Steve Reed also highlighted broader efforts to protect Jewish communities through increased funding and new laws addressing antisemitism and extremism.
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Source: https://gokaworldnews.com/2026/03/11/uk-government-defines-new-anti-muslim-hostility-measure/