Anti-Muslim Rhetoric Persists in the UK, Say Majority of Respondents

Strategic Insights -

A new study finds that over 70% of respondents in the UK report encountering anti-Muslim stereotypes in their daily lives, with nearly half of them experiencing it online. The findings highlight the pervasiveness and scale of anti-Muslim rhetoric in both online and everyday physical environments. A notable 22% of people agree that Muslims are demonized more than any other religious group in the UK. As the anti-Muslim hate continues to rise, an initiative called Project Unity has been launched to counter this hate and promote understanding through education and interfaith dialogue.

Key Takeaways:

  • 70% of respondents in the UK report encountering anti-Muslim stereotypes, with nearly half of them experiencing it online.
  • 20% of respondents reported observing anti-Muslim stereotypes in public spaces, such as shops, transportation, or events.
  • 20% reported encountering anti-Muslim stereotypes in political debates or statements.
  • 16% experience anti-Muslim stereotypes most often in their workplace or place of study.
  • 22% of people agree that Muslims are demonized more than any other religious group in the UK.
  • Muslims comprise 6.5% of the UK population, yet account for 42% of all religious hate crime victims.
  • Project Unity is a bold education-based initiative to counter anti-Muslim hate and promote understanding through interactive workshops and interfaith dialogue.
  • Project Unity is partnering with corporate businesses and large organizations to provide free workshops to educate staff on Islamophobia and related issues.
  • The project aims to equip staff, students, or teams with essential cultural and religious literacy, helping to foster a more respectful and informed environment.

Statistics:

  • 70% of respondents in the UK report encountering anti-Muslim stereotypes.
  • 20% of respondents reported observing anti-Muslim stereotypes in public spaces.
  • 20% reported encountering anti-Muslim stereotypes in political debates or statements.
  • 16% experience anti-Muslim stereotypes most often in their workplace or place of study.
  • 22% of people agree that Muslims are demonized more than any other religious group in the UK.
  • 6.5% of the UK population are Muslims.
  • 42% of all religious hate crime victims are Muslims.

Sources:

  • Consumer Research - 500 UK Adults by Research Without Barriers - June 2025
  • Home Office Report from 2022/23
  • Better Communities Bradford

(BCB)