Rayner Rethinks Islamophobia Definition Amidst Public Concern

A recent attempt to formally define Islamophobia has sparked heated debate and prompted a government rethink. After facing considerable public backlash, Rayner has withdrawn the proposed definition, which was being developed by a newly established working group.

Controversy Surrounds Proposed “Islamophobia Council” and Definition

The controversy began when Rayner’s office initiated a public consultation to establish an official government definition of Islamophobia. A 16-member working group, dubbed the “Islamophobia Council,” was tasked with addressing anti-Muslim hatred. Their proposed working definition, drawing from a 2018 parliamentary report, characterized Islamophobia as “a type of racism targeting expressions of Muslimness.”

Public Backlash Leads to Re-evaluation

This proposed definition ignited significant controversy, leading to widespread public pushback and ultimately prompting Rayner to reconsider the approach. The next steps in addressing the issue of defining Islamophobia remain unclear.