As civil society organisations, we are deeply concerned by the recent surge in Islamophobic attacks and the growing influence of far-right ideologies in the United Kingdom. The horrific murder of three young girls in Southport1 last week has been exacerbated by a wave of misinformation and targeted hatred against Muslims, asylum seekers and racialised people. Far-right groups exploited this tragedy, spreading falsehoods about the ethnicity and religion of the perpetrator, and using the incident to further their own agendas2.
We unequivocally condemn these Islamophobic attacks and call for immediate actions by the new government which is yet to address the violence for what it is: Islamophobia and anti-migrant hatred. The normalisation of far-right discourse must be vigorously challenged, and mainstream political parties must be held accountable for their failure to confront and reject Islamophobic narratives, which civil society has been opposing for decades.
The dangerous activities of far-right extremists, often enabled by anti-migrant rhetoric perpetuated by media and politicians, have led to a climate where racist violence can flourish. Recent attacks on mosques and the ongoing violence across the UK highlight the damaging consequences of inflammatory and divisive rhetoric.
The current wave of hatred is not new but has been brewing for years due to divisive narratives and political scapegoating as well at the institutionalisation of Islamophobia where anti-Muslim sentiments are becoming increasingly embedded within governmental and social structures. This worrying trend is not limited to the UK but it is evident across several European countries3 where Muslims and migrants are also scapegoated, as the recent European elections have illustrated. Without urgent action, similar outbreaks could occur across Europe. Muslim communities deserve safety and respect, not fear and violence.
We extend its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and communities affected by these heinous acts. The Muslim community in in the UK is living in fear for their safety and the sanctity of the places of worship. The exploitation of the grief of the families of the victims is absolutely deplorable.
As we are approaching the 21st of September, the European Day Against Islamophobia, addressing Islamophobia firmly and explicitly is critical and imperative. The violent riots illustrate how easily Muslims and racialised individuals can become scapegoats. We call on the UK government to take firm actions against Islamophobic hate as the time for inaction has passed; it is now time for decisive, unequivocal measures to safeguard Muslims and champion equality and justice.
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Notes
- FEMYSO (est. 1996) is a network organisation for 32 Muslim youth and student organisations across 22 European countries, and is the leading voice for European Muslim youth, developing and empowering them, and working to build a more diverse, cohesive and vibrant Europe.
- For more information or requests please email media@femyso.org
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