Record anti-Muslim hate in the UK as Muslim men are targeted more than women
Anti-Muslim hate reports in UK hit a record high in 2024, with men now more targeted than women
LONDON, UK (MNTV) – Anti-Muslim hate in the United Kingdom reached an all-time high in 2024, with men now being targeted more than women.
The revelations were made by Tell MAMA, an independent and confidential support service for those who face anti-Muslim hatred and prejudice across the UK.
A total of 6,313 reports of anti-Muslim incidents were filed with Tell MAMA in 2024, a significant increase from 4,406 in 2023 and 2,651 in 2022.
After the reports were verified, 5,837 cases were confirmed as anti-Muslim in nature, up from 3,767 in 2023 and 2,201 in 2022.
Nearly 3,700 of these incidents were offline hate crimes, reflecting a 72% rise since 2022.
The latest findings highlight a significant shift: for the first time in the organisation’s history, Muslim men have been more frequently targeted than women in offline cases of Islamophobia.
Tell MAMA attributed this trend to growing anti-Muslim rhetoric, particularly after the October 2023 Hamas offensive against Israel and the summer 2024 unrest following the Southport murders.
Tell MAMA’s report underscores the harm caused by stereotypes that associate Muslims with terrorism, further exacerbating divisions within society.
“The shift towards Muslim men being targeted more than women reveals how these harmful narratives are deepening societal rifts and reinforcing false views about Muslim identities,” the report stated.
In terms of the types of hate reported, abusive behaviour was the most prevalent, accounting for 62% of offline cases in 2024.
Other reported incidents included 171 assaults, 183 cases of discrimination, and 209 incidents of vandalism.
The most alarming increase was in threatening behaviour, which surged from 121 cases in 2023 to 518 last year.
The majority of offline hate occurred in public spaces, such as streets and parks, making up 40% of all reported incidents.
Workplaces accounted for 10% of cases. Meanwhile, online anti-Muslim hate also saw a spike, with 2,307 incidents reported in 2024.
Most online attacks took place on X (formerly Twitter), followed by TikTok and Facebook.
Iman Atta, director of Tell Mama, emphasised the need for continued support for victims of anti-Muslim hate and called for coordinated government action.
“We must stand together against hatred and extremism,” Atta urged, highlighting the growing need for stronger protections for Muslim communities in the UK.
The surge in anti-Muslim hate highlights the urgent need for greater societal efforts and government action to combat discrimination and protect Muslim communities.
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