Just over half of Britons (51%) believe that if people had more opportunities to meet and have conversations with Muslims from different backgrounds, it would make public perceptions of Islam more positive, according to new YouGov polling commissioned by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.
The figure rises to 54% among people with no religion, who believe that greater opportunities to meet and have conversations with Muslims would improve public perceptions of Islam.
The findings are released as the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community prepares to host Jalsa Salana UK, Britain’s longest-running Muslim convention, now in its 60th year. More than 50,000 Muslims from across the UK and around the world will gather this weekend in Alton, Hampshire, alongside thousands of guests, visitors and representatives from different faiths and backgrounds.
The three-day convention provides an opportunity for people to meet Muslims from diverse cultures and backgrounds, experience Islamic teachings first-hand and engage in conversations centred around faith, peace and community service. The event welcomes people of all faiths and none.
The Union Jack is also raised alongside the flag of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, reflecting the Community’s belief that loyalty to one’s country and faith can go hand in hand.
The findings highlight the importance of meaningful contact between communities at a time when public debate around religion and identity can often become polarised. Throughout the year, members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community engage with local communities across Britain through charity walks, fundraising events, nationwide litter picks, New Year’s Day street clean-ups, tree-planting campaigns and regular food bank collections.
“Rather than seeking conflict or fostering hatred, Islam has only ever instructed Muslims to knock down the walls of hatred that divide mankind and to build bridges of love and compassion in order to unite it. In short, at every level of society, and across all communities and peoples, Muslims have a duty to spread peace.”
Reflecting on the findings, Sabah Ahmedi, an Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community said:
“Jalsa Salana has always been about bringing people together. Unfortunately, too often, perceptions are shaped by what people hear about one another, rather than through actual interactions. I truly believe that a conversation over a cup of tea, a shared lived experience or simply taking the time to listen can break down barriers that could have otherwise lasted forever.”
Jalsa Salana UK takes place from 24–26 July in Alton, Hampshire. The three-day convention is attended by more than 50,000 people from over 100 countries and is organised entirely by more than 5,000 volunteers.
EDITOR’S NOTES:
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,325 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 19–20 July 2026. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).
Media wishing to attend should contact AMC press office:
Tel: +44 (0)208 544 7678 or +44 (0) 7737 207604
info@pressahmadiyya.com
