Government considers new definition of Islamophobia over fears for UK equality laws

The UK's Labour government could change its proposed definition of Islamophobia over concerns it is “not in line” with equality laws and may impinge on free speech.

The party is under pressure to publish its definition of Islamophobia in an effort to tackle hate crimes after parts of the UK were rocked by race riots during the summer.

Minister for Faith, Communities and Resettlement, Lord Khan of Burnley, told peers this month he would update the definition “shortly”.

The party had adopted the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on British Muslims' definition of Islamophobia into its code of conduct in 2019.

But in a letter to Network of Sikh Organisations (NSO), seen by The Daily Telegraph, Lord Khan said the APPG’s definition “is not in line with the Equality Act 2010, which defines race in terms of colour, nationality and national or ethnic origins”, and said ministers were approaching the issue in a “more holistic” way.

“We want to ensure that any definition comprehensively reflects multiple perspectives and implications for different communities,” he wrote, according to the newspaper.

“This government is actively considering our approach to tackling Islamophobia through a more holistic lens and will provide further information on this in due course. More appropriately, the Equality Act 2010 provides protection from discrimination, harassment or victimisation to anyone with a religious belief, as well as to those who lack a religion or belief, subject to certain exceptions.

“A person who experiences Islamophobia from their employer or when accessing goods and services may be able to bring a case of religious discrimination or harassment to an employment tribunal or other civil court.”

The NSO has raised concerns that the definition had already been adopted by the party and feared it would have serious implications on free speech, not least the ability to discuss historical truths.

Campaigners have complained that the APPG's definition is too broad.

Presently the definition states: “Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.”

Concerns have been raised that the present definition could allow terrorism suspects to challenge investigations in law on the basis that those investigations are Islamophobic and could prevent legitimate criticism of Muslims.

A government spokesman said any new definition must be given “careful consideration” to ensure it “comprehensively covers multiple perspectives and considers potential implications for different communities”.

Last month, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper pledged action against people “pushing harmful and hateful beliefs” and a new approach to fighting extremism, after a wave of far-right riots in England and Northern Ireland in which mosques were attacked.

Tips to stay safe during hot weather

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can increase dehydration.
Seek cool environments: Use air conditioning, fans, or visit community spaces with climate control.
Limit outdoor activities: Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat. If outside, seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose and light-coloured clothing to facilitate heat loss.
Check on vulnerable people: Regularly check in on elderly neighbours, young children and those with health conditions.
Home adaptations: Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight, avoid using ovens or stoves, and ventilate living spaces during cooler hours.
Recognise heat illness: Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (dizziness, confusion, rapid pulse, nausea), and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

Cultural fiesta

What: The Al Burda Festival
When: November 14 (from 10am)
Where: Warehouse421, Abu Dhabi
The Al Burda Festival is a celebration of Islamic art and culture, featuring talks, performances and exhibitions. Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, this one-day event opens with a session on the future of Islamic art. With this in mind, it is followed by a number of workshops and “masterclass” sessions in everything from calligraphy and typography to geometry and the origins of Islamic design. There will also be discussions on subjects including ‘Who is the Audience for Islamic Art?’ and ‘New Markets for Islamic Design.’ A live performance from Kuwaiti guitarist Yousif Yaseen should be one of the highlights of the day.

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In Full Flight: A Story of Africa and Atonement
John Heminway, Knopff

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Where to buy art books in the UAE

There are a number of speciality art bookshops in the UAE.

In Dubai, The Lighthouse at Dubai Design District has a wonderfully curated selection of art and design books. Alserkal Avenue runs a pop-up shop at their A4 space, and host the art-book fair Fully Booked during Art Week in March. The Third Line, also in Alserkal Avenue, has a strong book-publishing arm and sells copies at its gallery. Kinokuniya, at Dubai Mall, has some good offerings within its broad selection, and you never know what you will find at the House of Prose in Jumeirah. Finally, all of Gulf Photo Plus’s photo books are available for sale at their show.

In Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi has a beautiful selection of catalogues and art books, and Magrudy’s – across the Emirates, but particularly at their NYU Abu Dhabi site – has a great selection in art, fiction and cultural theory.

In Sharjah, the Sharjah Art Museum sells catalogues and art books at its museum shop, and the Sharjah Art Foundation has a bookshop that offers reads on art, theory and cultural history.

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Starring: Yonas Kibreab, Zoe Saldana, Brad Garrett

Directors: Madeline Sharafian, Domee Shi, Adrian Molina

Rating: 4/5

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Key facilities

Olympic-size swimming pool with a split bulkhead for multi-use configurations, including water polo and 50m/25m training lanes
Premier League-standard football pitch
400m Olympic running track
NBA-spec basketball court with auditorium
600-seat auditorium
Spaces for historical and cultural exploration
An elevated football field that doubles as a helipad
Specialist robotics and science laboratories
AR and VR-enabled learning centres
Disruption Lab and Research Centre for developing entrepreneurial skills

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