Northern Ireland: New poll showing minority support for anti-immigrant violence must be a “wake-up call”

Amnesty International UK has expressed deep concern following the publication of new polling showing that a minority of people in Northern Ireland are either unwilling to condemn or actively support acts of anti-immigrant violence and intimidation that took place during last month's disorder.

The survey, conducted by More in Common among 1,000 adults in Northern Ireland, found that 8% of respondents believed setting fire to homes where immigrants were living was justified, while a further 6% were undecided. The polling also found that 11% believed intimidating immigrants into leaving an area was justified, with an additional 8% undecided.

The research comes in the wake of racist violence that followed the attempted murder of Stephen Ogilvie in north Belfast.

Responding to the findings, Patrick Corrigan, Head of Nations and Regions at Amnesty International UK, said:

“These findings should serve as a wake-up call for political leaders and wider society. While it is encouraging that the overwhelming majority of people reject racist violence and intimidation, it is profoundly disturbing that a sizeable minority are either prepared to justify such attacks or are unwilling to condemn them.

“There can be no ambiguity when it comes to attacks on people because of their nationality, ethnicity or immigration status. Setting fire to homes, driving families from their communities and targeting people with threats and intimidation are serious human rights abuses. They can never be justified.

“The poll underlines why many people from migrant, Muslim and minority ethnic communities now feel real fear going about their day to day lives. It is notable that a majority of respondents now believe Northern Ireland is unsafe for immigrants and for Muslim people. No one should have to live in fear because of who they are or where they come from.

“The fact that racism is now viewed by the public as one of the most serious issues facing Northern Ireland reflects a reality that we and minority communities have been warning about for years. Governments, public authorities, social media companies and political representatives all have a responsibility to challenge racist narratives and prevent them from taking deeper root.

“Northern Ireland has been enriched by people who have chosen to make their lives here. The answer to social and economic challenges is not scapegoating vulnerable communities. Political leaders must show clear moral leadership, reject attempts to divide people along ethnic lines and stand firmly alongside those who have been targeted.”

Amnesty International UK noted that the polling also found strong public disquiet about the impact of the disorder, with more than eight in ten respondents expressing concern about people being forced from their homes or businesses because of their nationality or ethnic background, and 77% saying those involved in the violence did not speak for them.

Amnesty reiterated its call for authorities to ensure robust protection for those at risk of racist attacks, effective investigation and prosecution of hate crimes, and long-term action to tackle racism and discrimination across society.