Shaista Gohir, a prominent cross-bench peer and head of the Muslim Women’s Network, has expressed concerns over the British government's failure to adopt a definition of anti-Muslim hostility, which she argues would send a dangerous message to British Muslims about their safety. During discussions surrounding a working group initiated in 2025 to address anti-Muslim prejudice, she noted that a proposed definition intended to clarify unacceptable treatment and discrimination against Muslims was submitted to the government earlier in October. The absence of such a definition could lead to a perception among Muslims that their safety is not a priority for the authorities.

Gohir highlighted the problem of rising hate crimes against Muslims, which saw an increase of nearly 20% in 2025, sparking alarms among community leaders and advocates. The proposed non-statutory definition was designed to align with existing laws to enhance protection for Muslims without conflicting with legal frameworks, yet it faces pushback from critics who contend that it might violate certain laws. Gohir criticized the government's handling of the matter and called for clear measures to safeguard vulnerable communities from rising intolerance.

The issue of defining anti-Muslim hostility is crucial not only for preventing discrimination but also for fostering a more inclusive society. The refusal to adopt such a definition not only has implications for legal protections but also contributes to a climate of fear within the Muslim community. As advocates like Gohir continue to push for change, the dialogue around defining hate crimes and ensuring safety for all minority groups remains a pressing concern within British society.