The UK government has launched a competition to design and build a national Muslim war memorial in England, with nearly £1 million in funding available. The memorial will honour the contributions of Muslim soldiers who fought alongside British forces during the First and Second World Wars.
Government initiative to honour Muslim soldiers
Faith and communities minister Nesil Caliskan announced the initiative, stating: "Our country is made up of a strong, diverse tapestry of different faith communities and we owe that freedom to the bravery and sacrifice made by those who fought alongside us for a better future all those years ago. Muslim soldiers were a fundamental part of securing victory, but their story has been in the shadows for too long. This memorial will make sure their contribution stays in our memory now, and for generations to come."
The government estimates that at least 400,000 Muslim soldiers fought in the First World War alone. Among them was Khudadad Khan, believed to be the first Muslim recipient of the Victoria Cross during that conflict. In 1914, after his fellow soldiers were killed at Hollebeke, Belgium, Khan continued firing his machine gun alone, delaying a German advance until reinforcements arrived. Despite being injured, he crawled back to his regiment at night.
Competition details and requirements
The competition opens on 10 June and is open to charities, companies, and local authorities in England. Applicants must propose a location for the memorial and explain how they will secure planning permission. High-scoring designs must include credible construction timelines and engagement activities, particularly with Muslim and armed forces communities. Up to £970,000 is available for the project.
The memorial is intended to serve as a space for learning and reflection, ensuring that the stories of Muslim soldiers are preserved for future generations.
Existing war memorials in the UK
The UK already features several memorials honouring diverse communities and war contributions, including:
- The Memorial Gates near Buckingham Palace, unveiled in 2002, marking the contribution of soldiers from the Indian subcontinent, Africa, and the Caribbean.
- The Monument to the Women of World War II in Whitehall, unveiled in 2005.
- The African and Caribbean War Memorial in Brixton, unveiled in 2017.
- The Animals in War Memorial near Hyde Park, unveiled in 2004.
The new Muslim war memorial will add to this rich tapestry, bringing the stories of Muslim soldiers "out of the shadows" and into the nation's collective memory.
