Research conducted by British Future, a thinktank, reveals widespread perceptions among Britons that racial inequality is increasing and discrimination has become more prevalent. The study surveyed 2,009 white adults and 3,014 ethnic minority adults between late March and late April, supplemented by 12 focus groups. Findings indicate that most ethnic minorities believe progress against racism achieved during their lifetimes is now being reversed.
Nearly half of ethnic minority respondents reported experiencing racial or nationality prejudice within the past year, with younger people aged 18 to 24 experiencing higher rates. Instances of discrimination were most commonly reported in public spaces, followed by social media and workplace settings. The research identified significant differences in how racial inequality is perceived, with 62% of ethnic minorities viewing it as a serious problem compared to 57% of white respondents.
Perceptions of preferential treatment reveal notable polarization. Among white respondents, 37% believed ethnic minorities received better treatment than white British people, while 33% disagreed. Among ethnic minorities, 23% agreed minorities received preferential treatment while 48% disagreed. Divisions based on age and political affiliation proved more substantial than those related to ethnicity alone. Both demographic groups identified economic inequality as the most important divide affecting the United Kingdom.
Within ethnic minority communities, attitudes varied by background. Black respondents displayed greater optimism about racial equality progress, while Bangladeshi and Pakistani heritage respondents expressed heightened pessimism, reportedly linked to events in 2024. Ethnic minority women demonstrated greater pessimism than men. The study, part of a three-year initiative funded by the Nuffield Foundation, recommended that government leaders counter perceptions of racial equality as a zero-sum competition and pursue broader fairness initiatives addressing racism and discrimination systematically.
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