A new definition of Islamophobia being considered by UK ministers is expected to protect the freedom to criticise Islam, according to a source familiar with the matter. The government launched a working group in February to define unacceptable treatment, prejudice, discrimination and hate targeting Muslims or those perceived as Muslim.
The working group, chaired by former attorney general Dominic Grieve KC, submitted its report to Communities Secretary Steve Reed this month. The report proposes a non-statutory definition, which the government may choose not to publish or could drop entirely. If adopted, it would be subject to consultation.
A source said the group adhered to its terms of reference, which require that any definition must be compatible with the right to freedom of speech, including the right to criticise, express dislike of, or insult religions and their adherents. The source noted that the 2019 definition adopted by Labour and over 50 councils could be interpreted as limiting criticism of Islam, which the working group aimed to avoid.
The proposed definition comes amid a rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes, which increased by nearly a fifth to 3,199 offences in the year to March 2025, up from 2,690 the previous year. A government spokesperson said no decisions have been made and that freedom of speech, including the right to criticise religions, will remain a priority.
