Islanders invited to have their say on hate crime legislation

Islanders are being encouraged to take part in a 12-week consultation on proposals to introduce hate crime legislation in Jersey. The consultation will help shape any future law before it is drafted and will gather views from individuals, community groups and organisations. 

The aim is to make sure everyone is protected from crime motivated by hostility or prejudice, while also protecting freedom of expression.  

 A hate crime is a crime such as assault, harassment, threats or criminal damage that is motivated by hostility towards a person’s protected characteristic, such as their race, religion, disability or sexual orientation.  

The consultation, which is available in English, Polish and Portuguese, asks Islanders whether Jersey should introduce hate crime laws, which characteristics should be protected, whether offences for stirring up hatred should be introduced, and whether the proposals strike the right balance between protection and freedom of speech.  

The Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Senator Helen Miles, said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe in their community. This consultation is an opportunity for Islanders to help shape how Jersey responds to crimes motivated by hostility and prejudice. 

 “We know this is an important issue and want to hear from as many people as possible before any law is drafted. We are committed to ensuring any future legislation protects people from harm while safeguarding freedom of expression. 

 “I would encourage Islanders, community groups and organisations to take part and share ​their views.”  

The consultation builds on previous work carried out in 2019 and aims to gather the views ​of a range of people, groups and communities across the Island. Responses can be submitted in English, Polish and Portuguese.  

The consultation is open until Tuesday 12 January 2027.

Islanders can take part online here​.