Muslim Groups Criticise 'Unfair' Focus On Islam In Casey Report

The government's report on social cohesion focuses too heavily on problems in Islamic communities, Muslim groups have warned.

Dame Louise Casey's review recommended an "integration oath" after it highlighted "worrying levels" of racial and social segregation. Commissioned by then Prime Minister David Cameron, the year-long study put the spotlight on Muslim-majority areas and warned some mosques teach patriarchal ideas about clothing and status to women and girls. 

Casey warned a fear of being labelled racist had prevented public bodies calling out "deeply regressive religious and cultural practices, especially when it comes to women" in some ethnic minority communities in the UK.

But Muslims groups said it focused on Islamic communities and ignored other issues such as racism.

Bana Gora, chief executive of the Muslim Women's Council, said: "I am not denying that there is a problem in Muslim communities, but I would not put it down to self-segregation. We have to look at the broader picture, at education qualifications, at economics, at social mobility, at barriers in the jobs market.

"There are many inter-related factors and to put it all down such basic sensational terms by saying that the Muslim community is self-segregating does so much harm and is is totally unnecessary."

Harun Khan, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), said he welcomed any move to promote integration but warned of a "culture of fear" that was "a big driver in preventing a more united and cohesive society".

In a statement on Monday Khan said Muslims had to endure "a media echo chamber which amplifies the misconception that Muslims and their faith are incompatible with life in Britain".

He criticised the report as a "missed opportunity" and said: "We must recognise that our public discourse and conversation has a part to play in furthering integration. Integration is fostered when the media reports on stories that speak of achievement of minorities, of people coming together and where national moments are shared by all."

Sayeeda Warsi, the first Muslim to sit in cabinet, also joined the criticism. She said the focus on Muslims and especially Muslim women was unfair.