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Scotland records 7,115 hate-crime charges in 2025-26, highest since records began
The BBC reported that hate crime charges in Scotland reached a record high of 7,115 in 2025-26, a 17% increase from the prior year. Racial, sexual orientation and disability aggravated offenses all rose sharply, with 94% of cases leading to prosecutorial action.
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The BBC reported that Scotland recorded 7,115 charges containing at least one element of hate crime in 2025-26. The total marked a 17% rise from the previous year and the highest figure since records began in 2003-04. Racial crime accounted for the largest share, with 3,990 charges, also up 17% and at an 11-year high.
Charges aggravated by sexual orientation reached 2,062, a 20% increase, while disability aggravated charges climbed 25% to 1,370. A 2024 law created the offense of stirring up hatred on grounds including age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, transgender identity or being intersex, carrying a maximum seven-year prison term.
The BBC reported that 94% of the 7,115 charges resulted in prosecutorial action.
Lord Advocate Ruth Charteris KC said an increase in reports of crime motivated by racial, sexual orientation and disability aggravated hatred should concern everyone. She added that every hate crime represents a decision to target a person because of who they are.
Kirsten Oswald, victims and community safety minister, said recent events have highlighted increased levels of intimidation affecting communities that may already feel vulnerable.
