Frequently Asked Questions
Fiyaz Mughal has a broad range of passions and interests. In his professional and public life, he is well known for his community cohesion, countering hate crimes, equalities and anti-extremism projects. The founder of two important organisations, Faith Matters and Tell MAMA, Fiyaz Mughal OBE has performed a national service in the UK for which he was recognized in 2009 when he was named as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. This was in relation to his social cohesion and interfaith work. He remains committed to Muslim and Jewish dialogue, and he has consistently challenged both antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate.
Currently, Fiyaz Mughal provides consultancy services on themes outlined on this website and is also a part time practising mental health therapist and specialises in anxiety conditions.
In addition, Fiyaz Mughal is an avid history buff with a particular passion for Roman history in the UK. He enjoys visiting both historical and tourist sites within the nation.
A fan of sports, Fiyaz Mughal cheers on the English cricket and hockey teams. As a boy, Fiyaz Mughal enjoyed playing hockey until his late teenage years.
Here, you can find the answers to some frequently asked questions that may come up as you read about these topics via this blog:
What Is Extremism?
The UK Government generally defines extremism as the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance that aims to negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others, or undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights. In March 2024, the Government published an updated definition stating that extremism includes the promotion of an ideology that intentionally creates a permissive environment for others to achieve these harmful aims, including through violence or other unlawful means. This definition is intended to guide government engagement and funding decisions rather than create a new criminal offence.
In practical terms, extremism can emerge from a range of ideological backgrounds, including Islamist, far-right, extreme nationalist, or other forms of political and religious extremism. What distinguishes extremism from legitimate political, religious or social activism is not simply the expression of controversial or unpopular views, but the active promotion of hatred, intolerance, violence, or efforts to erode the rights of others and democratic institutions. The Government’s approach seeks to balance the protection of freedom of expression and belief with the need to safeguard individuals, communities and democratic values from those who seek to undermine them.
What Is Community Cohesion?
Community cohesion refers to the strength of relationships and the sense of belonging that exists between people from different backgrounds within a shared community. In the UK context, the concept gained prominence following the disturbances in towns such as Oldham, Burnley and Bradford in 2001, when government reviews highlighted concerns about communities living “parallel lives” with limited interaction between different ethnic, religious and social groups. Community cohesion is therefore concerned with creating environments where people have a shared sense of belonging, mutual respect, equal opportunities and meaningful interaction across differences.
In practice, community cohesion involves fostering trust, understanding and cooperation between individuals and groups while recognising and valuing diversity. The UK Government and local authorities have often described cohesive communities as places where there is a common vision and sense of purpose, where diversity is appreciated positively, where people from different backgrounds have similar life opportunities, and where strong and positive relationships are developed between people in workplaces, schools, neighbourhoods and public spaces. Community cohesion does not require people to abandon their identities or beliefs; rather, it encourages participation in a shared civic life, mutual respect, and a commitment to democratic values that enable diverse communities to live together peacefully and constructively.
What Is the Order of the British Empire?
The Order of the British Empire is an order of chivalry. It is used to honour individuals for their contributions to art, science, charity and welfare organisations and public service. There are five classes including:
Knight Grand Cross
Knight Commander
Commander
Officer
Member
The order was created in 1917 by King George V, who wished to honour the service of many who worked in non-combatant roles during WWI.