Religious charities in the UK are being investigated for promoting extreme views, including Islamist ideologies. On TalkTV, campaigners and commentators discussed shocking examples of sermons and lectures at charity-registered mosques. One sermon suggested that “blasphemers against Islam should be executed,” while another lecture claimed that husbands could hit their wives if they refused sexual relations.
In November, 44 charities were reported to the Charity Commission for anti-Semitic content, including offensive sermons and social media posts following the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel. Campaigners have criticized the lack of proper checks on these organizations, which allows them to spread harmful ideologies while benefiting from charity status.
A panelist on TalkTV said, “It’s crazy that someone can set up a charity with very little oversight and then preach extremist views. This is a massive threat to the country.” They called for immediate action to close loopholes and shut down any charity promoting extremism.
The Charity Commission, in talks with government officials, is considering new powers to tackle extremist organizations more effectively. This could include removing charitable status from groups found guilty of spreading harmful messages. A Home Office spokesperson confirmed that they are working on solutions to stop people from being drawn into hateful ideologies.
Experts on the show also highlighted the importance of integration. One guest, who moved to the UK at the age of 12, explained that adopting British values and respecting the country’s culture is vital. “I come from a Muslim country, and what these extremists are preaching would not be tolerated there. It’s dehumanizing and completely wrong.”
The conversation also touched on broader security concerns. Recent warnings from MI5 highlighted growing threats from inside the UK, alongside international dangers. Campaigners stressed that extremist ideologies within the country must be addressed urgently to ensure public safety.
The issue has sparked debate about how charities are monitored and regulated. Many believe that stricter vetting and regular checks are necessary to ensure charities are not misusing their platforms. The government is expected to announce new measures to tackle extremism soon.
The panelists concluded that the government and the Charity Commission must act quickly to shut down extremist activities and restore trust in the charity system. “If you cross the line into extremism, your charity should be shut down immediately,” one commentator said.