First Minister John Swinney will bring anti racism organisations together today to discuss Scotland’s response to hate crime, racism and far right extremism.
The meeting follows disorder in Glasgow and elsewhere in Scotland earlier this summer, with organisations, ministers, senior officials and Police Scotland continuing discussions since partners last met in June.
The Scottish Government says the work has focused on listening to concerns and identifying practical action that can be taken.
A further £214,000 has now been confirmed for anti racism education in Scottish schools during 2026 and 2027.
The funding forms part of wider government spending aimed at tackling prejudice, supporting communities and preventing hate crime.
More than £9.9 million is being invested this year across anti racism work, hate crime prevention, projects tackling violence against women and girls and community integration.
Today’s meeting will look at what has happened since June and priorities for the months ahead.
Swinney said:
“Any and all forms of hatred, extremism and racism are completely unacceptable and have no place in Scotland.
“My government will always stand in solidarity with communities to ensure everyone feels safe and respected.
“Bringing together partners today will allow us to take stock and identify priorities for the coming months.
“Tackling racism requires a sustained effort from government, our partners, the third sector and society as a whole, and we are committed to delivering on that.
“This year alone we are investing more than £9.9 million for support including anti-racism work, hate crime prevention, tackling violence against women and girls, and community integration projects.
“My government will continue to do all it can to support communities, challenge prejudice and build a fairer Scotland.”
The meeting comes as governments and police forces continue to consider how best to respond to hate crime and extremist activity while maintaining public confidence and community safety.
The Scottish Government’s approach combines enforcement and prevention with education and work involving community organisations.
Schools will form part of that response through the newly confirmed £214,000 investment in anti racism education.
The wider challenge extends well beyond government, with charities, community groups, schools, police and individuals all having a role in confronting prejudice.
For Swinney, the message ahead of today’s meeting is deliberately unequivocal.
Hatred, extremism and racism have no place in Scotland.
