The UK government has formally adopted a new, non-statutory definition of "anti-Muslim hostility" as part of a wider social cohesion strategy to tackle record levels of hate crime. The announcement, made in March 2026, aims to define "unacceptable prejudice, discrimination and hatred targeting Muslims".

 

The UK government has formally adopted a new, non-statutory definition of "anti-Muslim hostility" as part of a wider social cohesion strategy to tackle record levels of hate crime. The announcement, made in March 2026, aims to define "unacceptable prejudice, discrimination and hatred targeting Muslims".

Despite the government's assurances that the definition includes safeguards for free expression, the move has drawn significant criticism from free speech campaigners, some opposition MPs, and even some Muslim groups who argue it could be used to suppress legitimate speech or act as a "backdoor blasphemy law".

 

Key Aspects of the Definition:

Definition of Anti-Muslim Hostility: Defines the issue as intentional, criminal acts (violence, harassment, vandalism) directed at Muslims or those perceived to be Muslim, as well as prejudicial stereotyping and "racialisation" of Muslims, and unlawful discrimination that disadvantages them in public/economic life.

Non-Statutory Status: It is advisory and has no legal backing, serving instead as a guidance tool for public institutions, schools, and workplaces to identify and tackle prejudice.

"Perceived" Protection: The definition covers people targeted because of their appearance, dress, or names, even if they are not actually Muslim (e.g., Sikhs or Hindus).

"Anti-Muslim Hatred" vs. "Islamophobia": The government opted for "anti-Muslim hostility/hatred" over the term "Islamophobia," a decision intended to avoid defining a religion itself, focusing instead on protecting individuals.

Free Speech Safeguards: The guidance accompanying the definition explicitly states that "criticisms of a religion or belief, including Islam, or of its practices" remains protected, as does "portraying it in a manner that some of its adherents might find disrespectful or scandalous".

 

Concerns and Controversies:

Free Speech "Chilling Effect": The Free Speech Union and others argue that terms like "prejudicial stereotyping" are too broad and subjective, risking a "chilling effect" where people avoid discussing sensitive topics—such as grooming gangs or extremism—for fear of being accused of hate speech.

Backdoor Blasphemy Law: Conservative MPs and campaigners expressed concerns that the definition "blurs the line" between legitimate criticism and prohibited speech, potentially acting as a de facto blasphemy law.

Critique from Muslim Groups: Some Muslim organisations, including the Islamophobia Response Unit, stated the definition "falls short" of adequately capturing the systemic and structural nature of Islamophobia, favoring a narrower focus on "hostility" over "racism".

Legal Challenges: The Free Speech Union announced it is preparing a legal challenge through a judicial review, arguing the definition is "irrational and incoherent" and conflicts with existing equality legislation.

Communities Secretary Steve Reed has strongly rejected these criticisms, stating the definition "protects the fundamental right to freedom of speech while protecting people from unacceptable abuse and violence".