In the UK, hate crime laws protect individuals and communities from abuse and violence. But there is a dangerous gap: public figures and politicians can use hateful, divisive rhetoric without facing legal consequences, even when their words incite hatred and real harm in society.

We have seen examples where influential people have made racist, sexist or hateful statements that fuel discrimination and violence. Yet, they remain above the law, with no accountability or punishment.

There is a causation effect and a strong link between hateful rhetoric and real-world violence.

This must change.

We call on the UK Government and Parliament to:

• Extend hate crime laws to cover hate-inciting speech by public figures and politicians.
• Ensure that those in power cannot incite hatred with impunity.
• Ensure that politicians who incite hatred are immediately removed from their positions.
• Protect communities from the harmful effects of divisive rhetoric at the highest levels.

Our society deserves leaders who are responsible for their words. It’s time to close this legal loophole and hold them to account.

Sign this petition to demand justice, equality and safety for all. Nobody deserves to live in fear for the aspects of their identity which they cannot control.

Statistics:

1. Hate crimes recorded by police in England and Wales increased by 14% in 2023 with race hate crimes making up around 76% of these incidents (Home Office, 2024).
2. The Community Security Trust (CST) reported a 22% rise in antisemitic incidents in 2023, the highest since records began.
3. 84% of victims of hate crime say it had a negative impact on their mental health (Victim Support, 2022).
4. Studies show that incitement or hate speech from influential figures directly correlates with spikes in hate crimes in affected communities (Runnymede Trust, 2021).