The British army is looking at ways to enroll more Muslims as the most up-to-date data reveal that they make up less than 1% of the total.
According to General Sir Nicholas Carter, Chief of the General Staff, ethic minority representation in the military is “nowhere near where it needs to be” and more must be done to recruit.
“Our recruitment from the black, Asian and minority ethnic communities has been improving over the years, but it is nowhere near where it needs to be. We have to do more,” My highest priority is ensuring we continue to have the best possible talent throughout our Army,” he said.
Figures released by the Ministry of Defence disclose that there are 480 Muslims in the army out of an overall strength of 88,500 – 0.54%, an increase from 300 in 2008.
Muslims consist of around 4.4% of the UK population as per the 2011 census.
About 9,110 members of the army are drawn from the black, Asian, Sikh, Hindu and Fijian and minority ethnic
population to make up less than 10% of the force.
The conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have brought about negative perceptions of the military in Muslim communities.
One of the most senior Muslims in the army, Imam Asim Hafiz, Islamic adviser to the chief of staff, said “In my view, the values of the armed forces are fully compatible with the values of Islam as well as other faiths,” he said.
“Anybody wishing to pursue a career in the Services, Regular or Reserve, and is prepared to work hard can be assured of a very rewarding experience.”