Recent findings from the Garda reveal a troubling rise in hate crimes across Ireland, fueled by animosity towards different races and nationalities. The report discloses a stark increase from 2022 to 2023, with 548 reported hate crimes and 103 incidents deemed hate-related but not constituting crimes. Racial hatred emerged as the primary motivation behind 36% of these crimes, followed by animosity towards foreign citizenship (18%) and heterosexual orientation (16%).
Dublin’s metropolitan area witnessed the highest concentration of such incidents, comprising 44% of reported cases. Law and order issues topped the list of motivations at 27%, followed by petty assault (16%), and various forms of criminal damage (12%).
In response to these alarming trends, the Garda is intensifying efforts to support hate crime victims. Presently, over 500 specialized Garda officers are actively engaged in assisting minorities and individuals affected by such incidents nationwide.