7^th July 2025

MEDIA STATEMENT

7 /7 London Bombings – Reflections 20 years On

Today, Muslim Women’s Network UK (MWNUK) joins Britons in remembering the 52 lives lost and the hundreds more injured during the 7/7 London bombings. We honour their memory by renewing our commitment to peace, unity, and solidarity across Britain’s diverse communities.

The horrific attacks were a betrayal of the core values of Islam and our shared humanity. In the years that followed, many Muslims have taken active steps to challenge the fringe extremist ideologies and to amplify the voices of the unacknowledged majority who are committed to peace, coexistence, and active participation in wider society. This period also saw the rise of new organisations that aim to reflect the rich diversity and lived experiences within Muslim communities. MWNUK was one such organisation. Initially formed as an informal group, we carried out a national listening exercise in 2005. This led to our formal establishment as a Community Interest Company in 2008 and our registration as a charity in 2013.

Twenty years on, Muslim communities continue to bear the burden of challenging negative stereotypes and rising anti-Muslim hatred. This hostility affects Muslims across all areas of life—whether in public spaces, the workplace, or when accessing services. Yet Muslims are making vital contributions across business, academia, public services, culture, and politics.

Today, there are a record 25 Muslim MPs, compared to just four in 2005. Although Muslims represent only 6.5% of the UK population, they make up 18% of doctors. British Muslims also contribute an estimated £70 billion to the UK economy each year. Despite their significant contributions, Muslims are still too often demonised, stereotyped, and treated with suspicion.

MWNUK CEO Baroness Shaista Gohir said: “Community cohesion is not something that can be built by Muslim communities alone. It requires shared responsibility from all parts of society — government, institutions, media, social media platforms and the general public. Many Muslims have gone above and beyond in—building bridges between communities, contributing to public life and launching initiatives. However, these efforts need to be met with support, and at the very least, acknowledgement.”

True community cohesion means recognising the value of diversity, challenging discrimination whenever and wherever it occurs, and ensuring that all communities—Muslim and non-Muslim alike, regardless of class—feel they have a genuine stake in the future of this country and will not be left behind or marginalised.

Victims of anti-Muslim hatred and discrimination can contact Muslim Women’s Network Helpline on 0800 999 5786 / info@mwnhelpline.co.uk

Additional Information

· Media enquiries can be directed to: contact@mwnuk.co.uk or 0121 2369000

· Muslim Women’s Network UK is a national charity: https://www.mwnuk.co.uk

· Muslim Women’s Network Helpline: https://www.mwnuk.co.uk