The Future of Islam in UK Politics
With high levels of immigration and current demographic trends, the UK will be at least 17% Islamic by 2050 (1). This will cause an immense shift in UK politics. Due to shared interest and as directed by community leaders the majority of Muslims will vote together along sectarian lines. In the 2024 General election, the Labour Government with a "landslide" majority received 33.7% (2) of the votes from all those eligible, but this only equates to 18% of overall adult population (3). By the 2029 General election, I predict we will see the creation of a Muslim Party in the UK, and, as British demographics change, it will increase in strength to become one of the most popular political forces.
We must not disregard the concerns of those who understand that the current applications of Islamic principles seen in countries around the world are diametrically opposed to those of the more liberal West. People are concerned that British traditions and culture are being replaced in areas by that of a non-integrated Islam. Furthermore, the concern is that Muslim principles and qualities will be pushed upon the British population via the growing influence of Islam in Westminster.
Most people all want the same thing, to live healthily in a safe country, guaranteeing personal freedoms and a comfortable quality of life, where they can build something that will outlast them. They need assurances that this is a future they can expect and can work towards.
We are all human, and as such we are tribal creatures with a fear of the unknown. Mismanaged immigration over the past couple of decades, as well as media and Government response, has resulted in the fear that the British culture and identity is being erased and no one is allowed to talk about it. Emotions are bottled up, and only realised in extreme outbursts such as those seen in recent violent rioting. These outbursts must be condemned, however, they are unsurprising.
Let's create a society where we can have dialogue, where we can have challenging conversations, where we can speak about the problems we are concerned with, where we can reassure each other, where together we can solve the issues we feel passionate about.
British society is evolving and nothing will stop that; it is a demographic certainty. Whilst it changes, let's make sure that the UK doesn't lose everything that has historically made it one of the most successful nations on the planet. To name only a few; our historic institutions, stability, independence, strong rule of law, and liberal attitudes.
May the UK be a place that people aspire to move to and build a life in. May the UK be a place where individuals through work and dedication can succeed. May the UK be a place where people are proud to be British.
References
(1) Pew Research Center - “Europe’s growing Muslim population” - 2017/11/29
(2) House of Commons Library - “General election 2024 Results” - 2024/07/18
(3) Office for National Statistics - “Population estimates for the UK, England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland: mid-2019” - 2020/06/24
WRITTEN & NARRATED BY ADAM CREEVY
