AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): As the British government prepares to publish a new definition of “Islamophobia”, a wave of debate and concern has emerged over the legal and social consequences of the move. Supporters see it as a necessary tool to counter harassment and discrimination, while critics caution that it could become a “backdoor blasphemy law” and undermine freedom of expression.
Akeela Ahmed, co-chairwoman of the British Muslim Foundation and a member of the government’s advisory working group, said the aim of the new definition is to protect individuals from insult, threats, and abuse. According to her, the framework can enhance clarity and offer reassurance to Muslims who feel their place in British society has been increasingly questioned.
She noted that social tensions across the United Kingdom have intensified sharply over the past two years, with visible signs of racism and violent behavior re-emerging. Referring to a personal experience in which she was refused service in a shop, Ahmed described a growing sense of vulnerability and insecurity.
She also pointed to protest gatherings, certain street activities, and tensions linked to the conflict involving Palestine and the Israeli regime as factors that have deepened social polarization, adding that these developments have left many Muslims feeling marginalized.
The working group tasked with drafting the definition, chaired by Dominic Grieve, a former attorney general and Conservative politician, submitted its recommendations to the government in October last year. Steve Reed, Britain’s communities secretary, has said the new definition will be released “soon”.
However, critics, including the Counter-Extremism Group and the Equality and Human Rights Commission, have warned that the proposed definition could unlawfully restrict free speech and lead to discrimination against other religious communities. They argue that existing British laws on equality, hate crimes, and human rights already provide adequate protection for all religious minorities, including Muslims.
In response, the UK government has reiterated its commitment to combating all forms of hate while stressing that safeguarding freedom of expression remains a priority, adding that the recommendations will continue to be reviewed carefully.
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