Concerns about the proposed definition of Islamophobia – Humanists UK

The think tank Policy Exchange has released a new report expressing concern about a definition of Islamophobia proposed in recent years by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for British Muslims. The report was written by Labor MP Khalid Mahmood, former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sir John Jenkins, and Dr Martyn Frampton, with a foreword by former Home Secretary and Communities Secretary Sir Sajid Javid MP. Humanists UK has also raised concerns about the definition, as it fails to distinguish between prejudice against people and criticism of beliefs.

Prejudice against Muslims in Britain is widespread and this needs to be addressed. Humanists UK itself has worked to tackle such prejudice, including by supporting the introduction of the Equality Acts of 2006 and 2010 and the Racial and Religious Hatred Act of 2006; extensive dialogue work with Muslim groups; and repeatedly speaking out against atrocities experienced by Muslims around the world because of their identity.

The APPG’s proposed definition for British Muslims states that ‘Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a form of racism that focuses on expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.’ However, Humanists UK believes that this definition (and in particular the tests proposed alongside it) requires improvement as it does not sufficiently distinguish between (i) prejudice and discriminatory actions against people who identify or are identified as Muslim, and (ii) criticism of the beliefs, ideas and practices that might fall under the umbrella of Islam. It poses a risk to legitimate freedom of speech and thought, religion or belief, and it also threatens to inadvertently support extreme Islamist groups abroad, including some Islamic states at the UN that use accusations of Islamophobia to fuel criticism to silence human rights violations. they commit.

It also does not take into account the impact on former Muslims, for whom being able to question, criticize and openly contradict Qur’anic teachings and expressions of Muslimness can be an important aspect of their identity, and can help them in come to terms with religious abuse they may have suffered. experience, and is a legitimate expression of their new religion or belief.

Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson said:

‘It is critical that any definition of prejudice based on religion protects individuals from discrimination while preserving the right to criticize harmful beliefs and practices. We do not believe the proposed definition achieves that.”