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A new report reveals widespread Islamophobia within the Labour Party, with 64% of Muslim Labour representatives believing the party doesn't take the issue seriously. The Labour Muslim Network (LMN) found that 38% of Muslim representatives have directly experienced Islamophobia.
Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, strongly condemned Islamophobia, stating, "Islamophobia and anti-Muslim racism is despicable and it is absolutely right that more should be done to tackle it." She emphasized her long-standing fight for a recognized definition of Islamophobia, arguing that "a problem can’t be tackled if it is not accurately defined." Owen, who also chairs the Women and Equalities Committee, is leading inquiries into community cohesion and gendered Islamophobia, intending to present recommendations to the government.
A report by the Labour Muslim Network (LMN) revealed the extent of the issue, stating that "More than one in three (38%) have directly experienced Islamophobia in their time as representatives." The LMN urged the Labour Party to "recommit to ensuring that all members— including Muslim representatives—are treated with dignity, respect, and equality at every level."
Owen also confirmed she continues to press the government and the Prime Minister to "immediately recognise the Palestinian state, expand sanctions on extremist settlers and Ministers, advocate for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted and unconditional aid, and a release of hostages."
This internal party issue coincides with a troubling rise in anti-Muslim sentiment across the UK. Police statistics show that almost two in five of all religious hate crimes target Muslims, marking a 13% increase in the past year. Some reports even suggest a dramatic 600% rise in Islamophobic incidents since October 2023, following the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The report highlights a "hierarchy of racism" within Labour, where Islamophobia is often deprioritized or ignored. This is particularly concerning as far-right parties, like Reform UK led by Nigel Farage, gain traction and are accused of fueling anti-immigrant and Islamophobic rhetoric.
Beyond domestic concerns, the British Muslim community remains deeply engaged with international issues, including widespread support for Palestinian recognition and a call for more decisive action on Gaza. The LMN is urging Labour to recommit to treating all members with dignity and respect and encourages reporting any instances of Islamophobia.
This is further exacerbated by the growing influence of far-right parties like Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, whose rhetoric is perceived by many in the British Muslim community as contributing to a climate of fear.
