Counter terrorism threatened by mistreatment of Muslims, says report

In a 23-page report published last week, a UN rapporteur has warned that measures to combat terrorism in Britain could be undermined because of discrimination against Muslims. But the report warns that Muslims in particular face screening, searches, interrogation and arrest. Citing research that showed that 80 per cent of Muslims in Britain feel they have been discriminated against, the report singles out the Terrorism Act 200 for particular criticism. Under the act, police in some areas can stop and search people without having to show reasonable suspicion. The report says this affects ethnic and religious minorities more than other groups, especially since the July 7 bombings in 2005. Figures for 2004 to 2006 „show that searches of people with Asian appearance under this provision increased by 84 per cent, compared to an increase of only 24 per cent for White people, the report says. The report‚s author, Asma Jahangir, the UN special rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, also criticises terms in the Terrorism Act 2006 for being „overly broad and vaguely worded. Phrases she focuses on include «indirectly encouraging» acts of terrorism, and„ glorification, interpreted to mean „any form of praise or celebration.

February 29 to March 6, 2007

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Muslim Weekly