Reports of hate crimes up 15% last year

Hate crimes and hate-related incidents reported to gardaí increased by 15 per cent last year.

A record 780 hate crimes and hate-related incidents were reported last year, the highest figure since An Garda Síochána began collating the data in 2021.

Anti-race was the most common discriminatory motive, accounting for 40 per cent of those recorded, followed by anti-nationality at 23 per cent.

Public order offences made up almost a third of cases, while minor assaults accounted for 16 per cent and criminal damage 13 per cent.

There were also almost 40 more anti-race hate crimes reported in 2025 than the previous year.

Despite the rise in the figures, the Garda said hate crimes remain underreported.

The publication of the data is part of new hate crime legislation passed in 2024. Those affected can make reports on the Garda online hate crime reporting portal or at any Garda station.