Factors contributing to hate crimes and racial discrimination against Arab Muslims in the UK

Abstract

In recent years, a considerable body of research and surveys has been undertaken, notably in the aftermath of the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the European Union. These investigations have shed light on a noticeable increase in hate crimes directed explicitly towards the Muslim community within the UK, notwithstanding the existence of specific surveys conducted among Muslims residing in the United Kingdom, which have produced positive outcomes, indicating a positive trend in the degree of acknowledgement granted to Muslims within the nation (Ghani & Nagdee, 2019). According to the 2021 report published by the UK Home Office, it was determined that around 50% of individuals targeted in hate crimes are affiliated with the Muslim community in England and Wales. What determinants contribute to hate crimes and racial discrimination towards Arab Muslims in the United Kingdom? Is the United Kingdom considered to have the lowest incidence of racial discrimination against Muslims compared to other European nations? What factors contribute to the increase in hate crimes? Do Arab Muslims perceive a sense of societal failure? This ongoing crisis of racism has prompted numerous inquiries, including those about Arab Muslims, which are but a small subset of the broader range of questions being posed. And lastly, what do Arab Muslims anticipate from the government in combating prejudice and hate crimes? This research examines the variables causing hate crimes and racial prejudice against Arab Muslims in the UK in response to this problem and the abovementioned points. To do this, the research will first depend on secondary data from administratively released national-level statistics, which will be analysed in the literature review last section. After that, a varied sample of Arab Muslims from throughout the UK will be used for semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire-based survey to gather primary data using quantitative and qualitative methodologies. This study attempts to provide a thorough investigation of the views and perceptions of Arab Muslims about the causes influencing hate crime and racial prejudice by integrating primary and secondary data sources.