The United Kingdom’s Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, has faced significant backlash following her office’s initiative to establish an official government definition of Islamophobia. This move has sparked controversy and debate across the nation. The initiative involved launching a consultation process aimed at crafting a comprehensive definition, which led to the formation of a 16-member working group known as the “Islamophobia Council.” This council was tasked with addressing and mitigating anti-Muslim hatred within the country. The proposed definition of Islamophobia drew from a 2018 parliamentary report, which characterized it as “a type of racism targeting expressions of Muslimness.” This description has been met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a necessary step toward combating discrimination, while others criticize it for potentially infringing on free speech and being akin to a de-facto ‘blasphemy law.’ Critics argue that the definition could stifle legitimate criticism of religious practices and beliefs, thereby impacting freedom of expression. They express concerns that such a definition might lead to unintended consequences, including the suppression of open dialogue and debate about Islam and its role in society. Supporters, however, emphasize the importance of having a clear and official stance against Islamophobia to protect Muslim communities from discrimination and prejudice. The debate highlights the complexities involved in balancing the protection of religious groups from hate speech while ensuring that freedom of speech is not unduly restricted. As discussions continue, the government faces pressure to navigate these sensitive issues carefully, ensuring that any official definition does not compromise fundamental rights or exacerbate societal tensions.