In 1996 The Runnymede Trust, an independent research and social policy agency, established the Commission on British Muslims and Islamophobia.

In February 1997 the Commission produced a consultation paper entitled Islamophobia its features and dangers.

In November 1997, the Runnymede Trust published a report – Islamophobia: A Challenge for Us All.

“Building on the findings of a consultation document, this report takes on board comments and suggestions from a wide range of people and institutions. It provides a fuller explanation of Islamophobia and its consequences throughout society, and sets out recommendations for practical action by government, teachers, lawyers, journalists and by religious and community leaders.”

The report was the first of its kind to raise awareness of a very real and dangerous phenomenon in the public and political space.