Concerns Rise as UK Government Cuts Funding to Tell Mama Amid Surge in Anti-Muslim Hate Crimes

With anti-Muslim hate crimes soaring by 165% since the onset of the Israel-Palestine conflict, concerns are mounting among British Muslim communities following the UK government’s decision to withdraw funding from Tell Mama, a key organization monitoring Islamophobia, Middle East Monitor reported.

Founded in 2012, Tell Mama has been instrumental in documenting hate crimes, supporting victims, and collaborating with law enforcement. The funding cut, effective at the end of this month, leaves the organization facing potential closure without an alternative service in place.

Fiyaz Mughal, Tell Mama’s founder, criticized the government’s decision, highlighting the growing influence of far-right groups across Europe. He expressed concern that the withdrawal would leave many victims without support, stating, “This is an injustice at a time where I have never seen anti-Muslim rhetoric become so mainstream.”

Official police data reveals a record increase in religiously motivated hate crimes, with Muslims constituting 38% of all reported incidents. The rise in anti-Muslim sentiment has been exacerbated by online abuse, particularly since October 2023.

Mughal questioned the Labour government’s commitment to tackling Islamophobia, noting the disparity between their rhetoric and actions. Despite the establishment of a new working group on anti-Muslim hatred, the funding cut raises serious doubts about the government’s dedication to supporting affected communities.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has yet to clarify the rationale behind the funding cut or provide information on future support, leaving many in the community anxious about the loss of vital resources.