Mosques attacked, children racially abused as hard right rises in UK
Al Jazeera
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Mosques attacked and children racially abused as far-right sentiment grows in the UK highlight a disturbing rise in hate crimes targeting minority communities. Recent incidents, including attacks on mosques and racist slurs aimed at Muslim children, reflect a growing normalization of hatred and fear among ethnic minorities. Nabila, a Muslim mother in Basildon, Essex, shared her harrowing experiences of racism, from racial abuse in public spaces to the intimidation faced by her community. Her story underscores how even small acts of discrimination can create an environment of terror, forcing individuals like her to alter their daily lives and routines.
The article emphasizes the vulnerability of minority communities in areas with low ethnic diversity, such as Basildon, where Muslims make up less than 2% of the population. Nabila’s efforts to document these incidents and advocate for change reveal the emotional toll on those targeted by hate. She described how her own sense of safety has eroded, leading her to avoid places she once frequented, like her local park. This sentiment is echoed by other community members, including Zarka, a young mother who stopped taking her children to school after facing verbal abuse during the school run.
In Scotland, similar patterns emerge, with Etka Marwaha recounting how her daughter Anisa was subjected to racial slurs at school, leading to emotional distress and isolation. Despite repeated attempts to seek support from the school, little was done to address the issue, ultimately forcing Anisa’s family to move her to a new school with a zero-tolerance policy on racism. Marwaha’s experience highlights the long-term psychological impact of such abuse, which transcends generations as she reflects on her own encounters with racism during secondary school.
These stories shed light on the broader societal implications of rising far-right sentiment and its trickle-down effects on everyday life for minorities. The article underscores the importance of addressing hate crimes and fostering inclusive environments to prevent further division and uphold human dignity. As hate becomes normalized, the collective effort to combat it becomes more urgent, not just in the UK but globally.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/26/2026