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UK Government Defines "Anti-Muslim Hostility" Amid Rising Hate Crimes

3/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

The UK government is defining "anti-Muslim hostility" as part of its social cohesion plan, according to Communities Secretary Steve Reed.
This initiative aims to combat the increase in anti-Muslim hate crime, which represented 45% of religious hate crimes in England and Wales in 2025.
Former Conservative minister Baroness Warsi emphasized the urgency of addressing anti-Muslim racism.
Concerns persist regarding the balance between the new definition and the protection of free speech.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for unity in response to rising tensions.

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Story summary

The UK government is defining "anti-Muslim hostility" as part of its social cohesion plan, according to Communities Secretary Steve Reed.
This initiative aims to combat the increase in anti-Muslim hate crime, which represented 45% of religious hate crimes in England and Wales in 2025.
Former Conservative minister Baroness Warsi emphasized the urgency of addressing anti-Muslim racism.
Concerns persist regarding the balance between the new definition and the protection of free speech.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for unity in response to rising tensions.