Khan pledges £875k to fight extremism amid hate crime rise

Sadiq Khan has announced a further £875,000 to combat extremism in London, as the city experiences a notable increase in antisemitic and anti-Muslim hate crimes. This new investment aims to bolster efforts against radicalisation and promote community resilience.

Rising Hate Crime Figures

In the first half of 2026, London recorded 994 antisemitic hate crimes, representing a 24 per cent increase compared to the 800 incidents reported during the same period in 2025. Reports of anti-Muslim hate and prejudice have also risen substantially, with 1,031 incidents in the first six months of 2026, already surpassing the total of 1,028 for the entirety of 2023. These figures highlight a growing trend of hostility towards religious communities.

The Mayor of London stated that there is no place for hate crime in the capital and that he is committed to working with partners to address this issue. He noted that a small minority are using the ongoing conflict in the Middle East to sow division, but Londoners will remain united against such acts. Programmes like the Shared Endeavour Fund are designed to strengthen communities against extremism and safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Impact on Communities

Recent months have seen several violent incidents targeting London’s Jewish and Muslim communities. These include arson attacks on community charities and the Hatzola ambulance service, vandalism at synagogues, and stabbings in Golders Green. Additionally, nine separate attacks on mosques have been reported over the past year, alongside incidents of abuse against women wearing hijabs and anti-Muslim graffiti.

The new funding will be distributed to grassroots groups across London's boroughs. These organisations will deliver workshops and training in schools and communities. The investment will also support efforts to prevent radicalisation, assist young people in identifying and challenging extremist content online, and protect those considered vulnerable to extremist influences.

Concerns Over Youth Radicalisation

Commander Helen Flanagan, who leads counter-terrorism policing in London, expressed deep concern over the increasing involvement of children in counter-terrorism casework. She stated that online platforms and new technologies are providing extremists with avenues to reach and influence vulnerable young people. Commander Flanagan emphasised that safeguarding children from radicalisation requires a coordinated effort involving schools, local authorities, government, families, and community organisations.

Since 2016, Sadiq Khan has invested a total of £17 million in initiatives aimed at tackling hate crime across the city. The latest funding commitment is part of this ongoing strategy to enhance public safety and foster a more inclusive environment.