MEND Statement: On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let us make a serious commitment to eradicate it in the UK

Islamophobia is rising in the UK and around the world, threatening the safety, dignity and lives of Muslim communities. The International Day to Combat Islamophobia was established in the aftermath of the Christchurch mosque attacks, in which 51 Muslims were murdered while attending Friday prayers. Seven years on, these horrendous attacks remain a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of Islamophobia and the urgent need to combat it.

We observe this day at a worrying time for Muslims, particularly in the UK. Mosque attacks have reached record levels and Muslims now account for around half of all victims of religious hate crime. Far-right mobilisation is growing, with openly Islamophobic rhetoric becoming normalised. In September 2025, one of the largest far-right rallies in the UK organised by Tommy Robinson, featured explicit Islamophobic statements and calls for violence. These developments are unfolding within a broader context of an emboldened and electorally successful far-right.

The government must act decisively. Political leaders should challenge scapegoating and disinformation about Muslims and reject narratives that channel public frustration over socio-economic issues toward minorities and working communities.

Greater investment is needed in prevention and early intervention, including community-led safeguarding, youth engagement and initiatives that reduce vulnerability to online radicalisation and hate grooming.

Crucially, the government must engage meaningfully with mainstream Muslim civil society organisations, which possess extensive expertise and community insights to help shape effective strategies to tackle Islamophobia.

Confronting Islamophobia requires sustained political action and meaningful engagement with the communities most affected. Only then can we build a society free from fear, discrimination and violence.