Alarming Increase in Anti-Muslim Rhetoric in UK Since October 7th since October 7 th

In July 2024, Tell MAMA conducted a survey of 550 British Muslims, revealing the profound effects of anti-Muslim hate following the events of October 7th and the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The Survation poll, conducted from July 15, 2024, to July 29, 2024, was a comprehensive study that included 550 British Muslims from diverse theological backgrounds. The survey aimed to accurately represent the British Muslim population, ensuring representation by age, gender, and region.

The recent Tell MAMA Commissioned Poll revealed several significant findings. According to the poll, 60% of participants believe that anti-Muslim hate in British society has risen over the past year. Additionally, 27% of British Muslims surveyed reported experiencing an anti-Muslim hate incident in the previous year. Furthermore, there has been a 300% surge in verbal abuse and anti-Muslim prejudice against British Muslims since October 7, 2023.

The data collected by Survation on behalf of Tell MAMA supports previous academic research, showing an increase in verbal abuse directed at British Muslims. This abuse is commonly reported to occur at street level, on public transport, and, concerningly, within workplace environments. A significant 22% of those who experienced verbal abuse reported it happening at their workplace or in other institutional settings.

The report emphasises the importance of third-party services like Tell MAMA, which offer a means for individuals to report physical and online anti-Muslim attacks. These services provide an alternative avenue for the public to report instances of anti-Muslim hate. Organisations like Tell MAMA support victims by connecting them with relevant authorities, assisting in evidence collection, and advocating for their rights. For instance, they can help victims file a police report, gather witness statements, and provide legal advice.

According to recent research, the majority of British Muslims who experienced verbal attacks chose not to report these incidents to the police, authorities, or other support services. This suggests that more efforts are needed to encourage reporting to ensure that victims of anti-Muslim hate or Islamophobia have access to justice.

 The study also revealed a significant number of British Muslims who have been subjected to anti-Muslim abuse and hate over the past year, particularly in public spaces such as streets, public transport, and workplaces. 

Additionally, the research indicates that there is a growing perception among British Muslims of increasing anti-Muslim prejudice in society, which is accompanied by a heightened sense of unease about personal safety. These feelings may be linked to the tensions experienced by British Muslims since October 7, 2023.

Iman Atta OBE, Director of Tell MAMA, said: “These findings demonstrate that British Muslims feel a sense of trepidation and a growing understanding of the toxic nature of anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia.

“This is even before the recent events and the attacks on mosques like Southport Mosque by members of the far right. We have a real problem now, and that is entrenched anti-Muslim hate in the minds of some in our communities. We must actively and pro-actively challenge this hate wherever and whenever we encounter it through peaceful dialogue, engagement and law enforcement where necessary”.