I am appalled by the violence erupting in different parts of the United Kingdom in recent days, following a brutal attack in Belfast on Monday and the release of bodycam footage relating to the December 2025 attack in Southampton.
I express my deep sympathy with all victims as well as their families and communities. I understand investigations have been launched, and accountability is key.
Various actors have instrumentalized these attacks and have engaged in divisive narratives against communities based on race and ethnicity to incite hatred and violence. Scapegoating and dehumanization is totally unacceptable. Violence against individuals, the burning of homes, damage to property, and targeted intimidation of these groups, are deplorable.
Politicians and leaders have a heightened responsibility to refrain from narratives that inflame tensions or stigmatize communities. Providers of social media platforms must also take their own human rights responsibilities seriously regarding hate speech and incitement to violence.
