One in six Britons see Muslim population growth as 'threat to UK culture', study finds
A study reveals 17% of Britons strongly agree that Muslim population growth poses a 'foundational threat' to UK culture, while most Muslims and Britons support coexistence.
According to a study by the social integration thinktank British Future and the British Muslim Trust, 17% of Britons strongly agree that 'the growth in the Muslim population poses a foundational threat to UK culture'. Additionally, 19% do not agree that 'Muslims born in this country are as British as white, non-Muslim people born here'.
Despite this, 73% of Muslims think the UK is a good place to be Muslim, and 52% of Britons believe Muslims are as British as white non-Muslims. Akeela Ahmed, director of the British Muslim Trust, said Muslims feel their place and identity is being questioned more than ever.
The survey of 2,000 people found that 57% agreed that Muslims and non-Muslims can live well together in UK towns and cities. 61% of Muslims felt less safe after the first Unite the Kingdom rally in September 2025, rising to 69% of Muslim women.
The research shows 63% of the public recognize prejudice against Muslims, and 61% support government action against anti-Muslim prejudice. Only 7% oppose action. 56% of Muslims experienced prejudice based on religion in the past year.
Researchers found a 'strong correlation' between regular interaction with Muslims and acceptance levels. An age gap emerged: 29% of over-65s see Muslim contribution as negative, versus 16% of 18-24s.
Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, warned that if this trend continues, hostile attitudes risk becoming normalized. Ahmed added that online misinformation and lack of interpersonal contact drive hostility.
