Police in Northern Ireland recorded 1,507 race hate crimes and 2,367 race incidents between April 2025 and March 2026. These figures mark the highest annual totals since records began in 2004. The increase represents 320 more crimes and 561 more incidents than the previous year.

Belfast recorded almost half of all race incidents and crimes. Derry and Strabane saw 87 race crimes, up 58 percent from 55 the year before, and 128 race incidents, up 17 percent from 109.

Eight of the ten highest monthly totals for race incidents occurred between June 2025 and March 2026. Disorder across Northern Ireland in June 2025 contributed to elevated levels. Racist rioting in Ballymena last summer produced 348 incidents.

Tura Arutura of the African Arts Collective stated that people of colour live in constant fear. He called for increased investment in housing, healthcare, and education for ethnic minority communities.

Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland director of Amnesty International, said the recent spike in racist violence requires stronger police response and political leadership from the Executive.

Deirdre Hargey, Sinn Féin MLA and policing board member, said political leaders must clearly condemn racially motivated attacks on family homes.

The NI Executive started a 12-week public consultation on a Draft Framework for Race Relations and Delivery Plan. The consultation runs until 3 June and seeks to address racial inequalities and promote inclusion.