An Garda Síochána have recorded a 15.4% increase in reports of hate crimes and hate-related incidents in 2025, according to newly published figures. A total of 780 hate crimes and incidents were reported to gardaí last year, compared with 676 in 2024.

Racism was the most prevalent discriminatory motive, accounting for 40% of reports. Xenophobia was the second most common, making up 23% of incidents.

Public-order offences accounted for 32% of reports, while minor assaults represented a further 16%, meaning the two categories made up more than half of all recorded incidents. The number of crimes motivated by homophobia remained unchanged compared to the previous year, with 70 reports recorded in 2025.

Dublin continued to account for the largest proportion of hate-related incidents. Just under half, or 49%, occurred in the Dublin Metropolitan Region. The figures show a year-on-year increase in reported incidents across all Garda operational regions except the Southern Region. The Eastern Region accounted for 20% of incidents, while 14% were recorded in the Southern Region and 16% in the North-Western Region.

The Garda figures include several cases involving serious violence and offences motivated by hatred. In one case reported in Dublin in March, a person was attacked and robbed by a man and woman known to them. Following an investigation, gardaí arrested and charged the pair with robbery and assault causing harm, aggravated by hatred relating to the victim’s gender identity.

In another case involving a gay man who was attacked in Dublin in April, four males aged in their 20s and 30s have been charged in connection with the robbery. The proceedings are currently before the courts.

Chief Supt Jane Humphries, of the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau, said that targeting people and groups for fundamental characteristics “cannot and should not be tolerated in Irish society as it tarnishes our values and what we stand for.”

She encouraged anyone affected by hate crime to report it to An Garda Síochána, saying the force is “committed to upholding the human rights of all and will support you in any way that we can.” The publication of the figures follows the introduction of new hate crime legislation passed in 2024.

People affected by hate crimes or hate-related incidents can make a report through the Garda online hate crime reporting portal or at any Garda station.