Adoption of a formal definition of Islamophobia: FOI release

Information requested

Information regarding the Scottish Government’s actions in relation to the adoption of a formal definition of Islamophobia, as recommended in the "Report of the Inquiry into Islamophobia in Scotland" by the Cross-Party Group on Tackling Islamophobia (2021). Specifically, I request the following:

1. Has the Scottish Government formally adopted a definition of Islamophobia? If yes, please provide the adopted definition and the date of its adoption. If no, please provide any documentation, correspondence, or meeting minutes related to the consideration or discussion of adopting a formal definition of Islamophobia, including but not limited to drafts, proposals, or consultation responses.

2. If a definition has not yet been adopted, please clarify: Whether the Scottish Government has set a timeline for adopting such a definition. Any reasons or explanations provided within government records for delays or challenges in adopting a definition. Any ongoing or planned actions to progress towards adopting a definition. Please provide copies of any documents, reports, memos, emails, or other records that address the points listed above.

Response

To answer your question;

1. The Scottish Government has not at this time formally adopted a definition of Islamophobia.

2. The Scottish Government has not set a timeline for adopting such a definition but are working closely with stakeholders to tackle and prevent Islamophobia in Scotland, including in relation to the recommendations set out in the "Report of the Inquiry into Islamophobia in Scotland" by the Cross-Party Group on Tackling Racial and Religious Prejudice(2021).

I enclose a copy of some of the information you have requested, as set out in the attached Schedule of Documents. While our aim is to provide information whenever possible, in this instance we are unable to provide some of the information you have requested because of FOISA exemptions.

These exemptions are as follows:

• Section 30(b)(i) (free and frank provision of advice) Section 30(b)(ii) (free and frank exchange of views for the purposes of deliberation)
• Section 38(1)(b) (personal information)

The reasons why these exemptions apply are explained in Annex B of this letter.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.

FOI 202400436493 - Information released - Annex

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