A study conducted in New Zealand reveals that over 85 percent of Muslims in the country believe Islamophobia is prevalent, with more than half experiencing discrimination.
Study Overview
Conducted in 2023, the study explored various aspects such as discrimination, exclusion, Islamophobia, heightened vigilance, social cohesion, interactions with authorities, and overall safety and wellbeing.
The majority of participants were highly educated, with 95 percent having at least a high school education and 45 percent holding master’s or PhD degrees. Participants generally had high incomes and spoke English, though the study did not capture data from those on society’s margins or non-English speakers.
The Christchurch Mosque attacks in 2019 underscored the necessity of examining Muslim experiences of discrimination and inclusion in New Zealand. This led to several meetings between the government and Muslim organizations from 2021 to 2023, culminating in the formalization of this baseline study.
Key Findings
- 95 percent of respondents had at least a high school education.
- 45 percent held master’s or PhD degrees.
Discrimination and Social Exclusion
- Over 50 percent reported being treated as if they were not intelligent, feared, or looked down upon.
- 58 percent noted their children faced discrimination in school.
- More than half felt they received less respect and poorer service compared to non-Muslims.
Coping Mechanisms
Respondents primarily coped through praying harder, working harder, and seeking support within their communities. Reporting to authorities and attending counseling were less common.
Islamophobia
- 87 percent believed Islamophobia exists in New Zealand.
- 56 percent had personally experienced it.
- Over 60 percent felt women were particularly vulnerable.
- Incidents of Islamophobia occurred in schools, universities, public spaces, and interactions with authorities, targeting those wearing religious clothing like thobes or hijabs.
Mental Wellbeing
- Half of the respondents indicated Islamophobia negatively affected their mental health.
- Over 40 percent felt they were unfairly treated at work, with less qualified colleagues being promoted over them.
Recommendations
Respondents suggested ways to combat Islamophobia, emphasizing personal involvement and community efforts. One participant highlighted the need for better understanding and relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims, suggesting that increased interaction from a young age could foster greater cultural understanding.
Dr. Junaid noted the respondents’ proactive approach and practical ideas for integration and acceptance. Suggestions included:
- Better integration of first-generation Muslims through improved infrastructure.
- More diverse educational curricula.
- General acceptance of Muslim culture and practices.
Conducted by researchers from Massey University and funded by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) and the New Zealand Islamic Think Tank (ANZITT).
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