Race and religious hate crime rises in England and Wales, figures suggest

Race and religious hate crime rises in England and Wales, figures suggest

Hate crime statistics have shown a worrying increase in England and Wales for the first time in three years, according to Home Office figures. Religious and racially motivated offenses have seen a rise, with a notable spike in anti-Muslim crimes. The number of hate crimes against Muslims went up by 19%, particularly following the Southport murders and subsequent riots last summer. Conversely, hate crimes targeted at Jewish people decreased by 18% over the same period.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed her concern over the levels of violent hate crimes experienced by Jewish and Muslim communities. She emphasized that no one should live in fear due to their religion, race, or identity. In response to the rise in hate crimes, the government has increased police patrols around mosques and synagogues. Mahmood assured that those committing hate crimes will face strong legal repercussions.

In a separate report, it was revealed that 40% of religious hate crimes in the past year were directed at Jewish people. Despite a decrease in recorded anti-Semitic crimes, the figures were disturbingly high considering the size of the Jewish community. The Community Security Trusts, an organization that safeguards British Jews, highlighted the need for more comprehensive measures to address the issue of hate crimes against the Jewish community.

The data supplied by various police forces across England and Wales suggested declines in hate crimes related to sexual orientation, disability, and transgender identity. It was clarified that the comparisons of hate crime figures over the years were hindered due to changes in recording methods. Recent events like disturbances during protests at asylum hotels and reports of hate crimes at anti-immigration demonstrations were not yet included in the latest statistics. Various community leaders stressed the importance of unity and courage in confronting all forms of bigotry, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to combat hate crimes

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