Story perspectives

Pauline Hanson’s Islam Stance Sparks Backlash Amid Poll Gains

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 16, Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, called for a “tough stance” against Islam and radicalization in Australia, citing concerns about the Quran promoting hatred towards Westerners.
Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman condemned her remarks as stigmatizing and divisive.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke criticized Hanson's comments as “wrong and cruel.”
Despite the backlash, recent polls indicate One Nation is gaining support ahead of the next general election, scheduled for May 2028.

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Story summary

On February 16, Pauline Hanson, leader of the One Nation party, called for a “tough stance” against Islam and radicalization in Australia, citing concerns about the Quran promoting hatred towards Westerners.
Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman condemned her remarks as stigmatizing and divisive.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke criticized Hanson's comments as “wrong and cruel.”
Despite the backlash, recent polls indicate One Nation is gaining support ahead of the next general election, scheduled for May 2028.