International Day to Combat Islamophobia: Muslim Charities Forum Calls for a Britain United Against Hate 

Yesterday marked the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, a reminder that anti-Muslim hatred is not merely an abstract concept but a lived reality for millions of Muslims globally.  In the UK, Islamophobia continues to surge, with nearly half of all religiously motivated hate crimes targeting Muslims. In recent weeks, we have witnessed a spike in attacks against Muslim individuals and institutions, creating a climate of fear and insecurity for Muslim communities across the country.  Islamophobia, like all forms of hatred, erodes the foundations of a healthy democracy. It fractures communities and fuels division, undermining the values of tolerance, equity, and mutual respect that bind our society together.  Too often, Islamophobia is exacerbated by hateful rhetoric from politicians, public figures, and sections of the media. Such narratives contribute to the ‘otherisation’ of Muslims, creating an environment in which discrimination and violence become normalised. This was starkly illustrated by the far-right riots that gripped the country in the summer of 2024.  While the government’s adoption of a definition of anti-Muslim hostility is a necessary and long overdue step, it is not enough. This must be followed by sustained action, particularly through increasing protection and funding for mosques and other religious institutions. Every community deserves to feel safe, valued, and protected.