Labour Revises Islamophobia Definition Amid Free Speech Concerns

The Labour Party has revised and effectively scrapped its previous definition of Islamophobia amid concerns that it could threaten free speech. A working group, led by former Conservative minister Dominic Grieve, has replaced the term "Islamophobia" with "anti-Muslim hate" and removed references to "Muslimness" to better balance protecting Muslims from hatred while safeguarding open discourse. Critics feared the original definition, adopted in 2019 and based on the All-Party Parliamentary Group's wording, was too broad and could act like a blasphemy law, potentially restricting legitimate criticism of Islam and discussions on Islamist extremism. The new wording aims to clearly define hatred towards Muslims without curtailing free expression, and it has been submitted to Communities Secretary Steve Reed for final approval. Reed has expressed his commitment to rejecting any definition that would limit free speech. Some political figures, including Baroness Gohir and Claire Coutinho MP, have voiced opinions on the process, with Coutinho warning of the chilling effect the definition could have on public sector bodies if not handled carefully.