The resurgence of far-right violence in the UK has been a growing concern for researchers and experts in recent years. One factor contributing to this rise is Elon Musk’s decision to allow figures such as Tommy Robinson back on to the social media platform X. Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is not a traditional leader of the far-right movement, but rather a „weathermaker“ who inspires individuals to take local action or spread misinformation online.
According to Jacob Davey, director of policy and research at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), the far-right movement in the UK has become more decentralized in recent years. While there are known figureheads at protests, there is also a loose network of individuals tied together by online platforms and fueled by disinformation from unknown sources. This decentralized nature of far-right activity makes it difficult to police and track, as highlighted by Joe Mulhall, director of research at Hope Not Hate.
The role of social media platforms in amplifying far-right voices cannot be understated. Platforms like Facebook have been described as „outrage machines“ by experts like Prof Stephan Lewandowsky of Bristol University. The algorithms used by these platforms often prioritize sensationalist content over quality information, leading to the spread of misinformation and extremist views. De-platforming individuals like Robinson has been shown to reduce their influence, but it also leads to a displacement of followers to other platforms.
The language used by high-profile figures like Robinson, Laurence Fox, and Nigel Farage is often repeated in other social networks like Telegram and WhatsApp. Additionally, online content creators like Alan Leggett and Amanda Smith contribute to the spread of provocative content that fuels anger and misinformation among their followers. This content often targets issues like migrant accommodation and asylum seekers, tapping into underlying grievances in society.
To address the rise of far-right violence, experts like Mulhall and Davey emphasize the importance of creating a community cohesion strategy and promoting interactions between different communities. Building third spaces where individuals can interact and debunk misinformation is crucial in combating extremist views. Greater cooperation between government departments, local authorities, and the police is also needed to address the issue effectively.
In conclusion, the resurgence of far-right violence in the UK is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the role of social media, addressing underlying grievances, and promoting community cohesion, steps can be taken to counter the spread of extremism and misinformation. It is essential for government and society as a whole to work together to prevent further escalation of far-right violence in the country.