Muslim charities face financial discrimination in UK
Date
1/30/2025 6:43:42 AM
(MENAFN) Muslim-led charities in the UK are experiencing significant financial discrimination, as a new report by the Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) reveals widespread barriers to banking services. According to the study, 42 percent of the surveyed charities had their bank accounts closed without explanation, while 68 percent faced lengthy delays in opening accounts, with some organizations waiting for years. These disruptions, including frozen international transfers and delayed payments, have severely hindered aid efforts in conflict zones such as Syria, Palestine, and Pakistan, where critical support like medical supplies and refugee assistance has been delayed.
The report attributes these difficulties to an overzealous application of counter-terrorism financing measures, structural Islamophobia, and a lack of transparency within the banking sector. Abdulsami Arjumand, MCF's policy and advocacy lead, emphasized that Muslim-led charities have been grappling with these financial barriers for over two decades, but the issue has not been given the attention it deserves. He described the situation as a persistent struggle for these organizations.
Arjumand also pointed out the inconsistencies in how financial restrictions are handled in the UK. He compared the swift government response to the closure of former UKIP leader Nigel Farage’s bank account with the lack of urgency in addressing the challenges faced by Muslim charities. He noted that while government ministers quickly called for reforms following Farage’s account closure, Muslim charities have been fighting the issue of de-risking for years with little resolution.
In summary, Muslim-led charities continue to face financial discrimination, and while other issues have seen prompt action from the UK government, the struggles of these organizations remain largely ignored.
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