In 2025-26, the total number of charges reported containing at least one element of hate crime was 7,115, an increase of 17 per cent compared to 2024-25. This is the highest number reported over the period since 2003-04 when figures first became available.

The annual report on Hate Crime in Scotland, released today publishes figures on race crime, and on crime motivated by prejudice related to religion, disability, sexual orientation, transgender identity, age and variations in sex characteristics.

In total 3,990 charges relating to race crime were reported in 2025-26, an increase of 17 per cent compared to the previous year. This is the highest number of charges reported since 2013-14. Race crime remains the most commonly reported hate crime, featuring in 56 per cent of all hate crime charges.

Similarly, there has been a 20 per cent increase in sexual orientation aggravated crime [from 1,719 to 2,062 charges] and a 25 per cent increase in disability aggravated crime [from 1,099 to 1,370 charges].

Lord Advocate Ruth Charteris KC drew attention to the increase and pledged that prosecutors would listen to and respond to the experiences of those targeted.

She said: “An increase in reports of crime motivated by racial, sexual orientation and disability aggravated hatred should concern us all.

“Everyone who lives in Scotland is entitled to feel safe and every hate crime represents a decision to target a person because of who they are.

“I want to reach out to communities across Scotland and say that prosecutors are here to ensure that every report of a crime motivated by hate will be carefully considered and brought before the court where appropriate.

“That commitment is reflected in our response to reports of hate crime. Last year, 94 per cent of charges resulted in prosecutorial action, while only 2 per cent of all hate crime charges reported resulted in no prosecutorial action.

“We each have a role to play in challenging the actions of those who are motivated by prejudice and hate. Today’s publication highlights that prosecutors remain focused on holding offenders to account, helping to ensure Scotland is a place where everyone can live free from the threat of hatred or abuse.”