United Kingdom: Rising Anti-Muslim Hate Crimes and Attacks on Mosques Raise Concern – European Muslims League Calls for Greater Protection

16 October 2026

The European Muslims League (EML) has expressed serious concern over recently published figures revealing an increase in religious hate crimes targeting Muslims and incidents affecting mosques and Muslim communities across the United Kingdom.

According to a report published on 8 October 2026 by the British Muslim Trust, 78 attacks and hostile incidents involving mosques, associated premises and people connected to Muslim places of worship were documented over a twelve-month period. The incidents ranged from intimidation and vandalism to more serious forms of violence.

Official figures released by the UK Home Office on the same date show that religious hate crimes targeting Muslims in England and Wales increased by 15%, rising from 4,479 to 5,132 recorded offences in the year ending March 2026.

These findings highlight growing concerns about religious hostility and the safety of Muslim communities, particularly in places intended for prayer, reflection and community life.

"These figures deserve serious attention from British and European institutions. No one should have to fear aggression, threats or intimidation when attending a place of worship. Protecting mosques, just as we protect churches, synagogues and all other places of worship, must be a shared responsibility. Religious freedom and public safety must be guaranteed to everyone, without distinction," said Alfredo Maiolese, President of the European Muslims League.

The EML emphasises that combating anti-Muslim hatred must go hand in hand with opposing all forms of religious extremism, discrimination and violence.

Through its EML Islamophobia Watch – European Monitoring & Response Unit, the organisation continues to monitor and document verified incidents of discrimination, hostility and misinformation affecting Muslim communities in Europe.

The European Muslims League calls for stronger cooperation between public authorities, religious organisations and civil society to ensure that places of worship remain safe environments for everyone.

European Muslims League (EML)
www.eml.fm

Sources:

British Muslim Trust – A Year of Division, 8 October 2026
https://britishmuslimtrust.co.uk/research/a-year-of-division

UK Home Office – Hate Crime, England and Wales, Year Ending March 2026
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/hate-crime-england-and-wales-year-ending-march-2026