Australian Writers Warn of Rising Islamophobia Affecting Muslim Children

Australian Writers Warn of Rising Islamophobia Affecting Muslim Children
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Two Australian writers have warned that growing Islamophobia is increasingly affecting Muslim children, exposing them to abuse and discrimination at schools, on public transport and in other public spaces.

In an article published by ABC Religion & Ethics, titled “Muslim children are not exempt from Islamophobia, they are raised within it,” the authors highlighted the social and psychological effects of anti-Muslim incidents on young people.

The article cited the case of a 13-year-old Muslim girl in Sydney who was subjected to verbal abuse and accused of terrorism while travelling home from school because she was wearing a hijab. A video of the incident later circulated on social media, prompting calls for stronger protection against religious discrimination.

Citing data from the Islamophobia Register Australia, the authors said reported incidents have increased significantly since October 2023, with Muslim women and children among those frequently targeted.

They warned that repeated exposure to hostility can undermine children’s sense of safety and belonging and have lasting social and psychological effects. The authors called on schools, public institutions and wider society to respond more effectively to Islamophobic incidents, take complaints seriously and promote respect for religious and cultural diversity.