Hate Crime in Scotland 2026

That the Parliament notes with concern the latest hate crime charge statistics published by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), which report that there were 7,115 charges with at least one hate crime element in 2025-26, an increase of 17% on the previous year and the highest number recorded since comparable records began in 2003-04; recognises that 3,990 charges were race aggravated, an increase of 17% and the highest number recorded in 11 years; further recognises that 2,062 charges involved a sexual orientation aggravator, an increase of 20%, while 1,370 charges involved a disability aggravator, an increase of 25%; notes that hate crime charges also include aggravations relating to religion, transgender identity, age and variations in sex characteristics; acknowledges that 94% of hate crime charges resulted in prosecutorial action during the reporting year; recognises the potential impact that hate crime has on individuals, families and communities across Scotland, particularly those who may already feel vulnerable or marginalised; notes the introduction of the Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Act 2021, which included new offences of stirring-up hatred, that came into force in 2024; recognises that increased reporting and awareness may contribute to the rise in recorded hate crime; stresses that every reported incident can represent significant harm to individuals and communities, and calls on the Scottish Government to continue working with Police Scotland, COPFS, local authorities, community organisations and affected communities to prevent hate crime, improve reporting and victim support, and ensure that everyone in Scotland can live free from hatred, intimidation, prejudice and discrimination.