Contested definition of Islamophobia in U.K. Councils

Despite governmental rejection, approximately one in seven local authorities in England have embraced the debated definition of Islamophobia 

LONDON – In 2018, the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on British Muslims proposed the U.K.’s first working definition of Islamophobia, framing it as a racism-rooted phenomenon targeting expressions or perceived expressions of ‘Muslimness’.

However, the Conservative government in 2021 rejected this definition, claiming it blends race and religion, impacting free speech and associating criticism of Islamic doctrine with racism.

Despite governmental rejection, approximately one in seven local authorities in England have embraced the debated APPG definition.

A report, Islamophobia Revisited, reveals that many councils adopted the definition without thorough scrutiny, leading to biased briefing documents and overlooking potential drawbacks.

While the concerns surrounding anti-Muslim hatred are serious, the report said adopting such vague definitions could be counterproductive, fostering grievance cultures and hierarchical treatment of religions and beliefs.

With many councils contemplating the adoption of the APPG definition, there are growing concerns over the ongoing dilution of free speech values.

Labour-controlled councils predominantly support the APPG definition, raising the possibility of its integration into official policies and the Race Equality Act under a Labour government.

Several councils have resisted the APPG’s definition, citing its ambiguity and potential counterproductivity in addressing anti-Muslim bigotry.