Hate crime strategy

9. What we want to achieve

Our Vision

Our vision is for a Scotland where everyone lives free from hatred and prejudice.

We want to foster communities where everyone feels empowered, included and safe – and we want to address the societal attitudes that perpetuate hate crime. The term 'community' can mean many things to many people. Considering the fluidity of communities in practice means it is near impossible to define community in a static or all-encompassing way. Here, we view a 'community' as a group of people who are: in close geographical proximity or; who share a common interest or identity; or who are either physically or virtually engaged with one another.

It is unacceptable in a modern Scotland for anyone to live in fear or be made to feel like they don't belong. Crucially, we emphasise that those who face prejudice and hatred are not expected to either be individually resilient to it or to tackle it – we all have a role to ensure our communities are truly inclusive. We are clear that preventative work that builds strong, respectful and cohesive communities can reduce the likelihood of narratives that foster prejudice from taking hold, and ultimately help us create inclusive and empowered communities.

This vision supports our common outcomes, as set out in the National Performance Framework, for how we will collectively improve the quality of life for the people of Scotland – with a focus on tackling inequalities so that no one is left behind.

'We grow up loved, safe and respected so that we realise our full potential.'

'We live in communities that are inclusive, empowered, resilient and safe.'

'We are creative and our vibrant and diverse cultures are expressed and enjoyed widely.'

'We respect, protect and fulfil human rights and live free from discrimination.'

The Scottish Government and other organisations such as Police Scotland and COPFS have particular responsibility to achieve this vision. However, this is not only a strategy for the Scottish Government – but for all of Scotland – because it is only by working together that we can tackle prejudicial attitudes and achieve our vision. We don't underestimate the challenge – nor should communities across Scotland underestimate our ambition.