‘A polarisation engine’: how social media has created a ‘perfect storm’ for UK’s far-right riots
GuardianJUL 2024
Report: UK Police 'Ill-Equipped' to Tackle Impact of Online Content
Above: A police car is set on fire as activists hold an 'Enough is Enough' protest on Aug. 2, 2024, in Sunderland, England. Image copyright: Simone J Rudolphi/Contributor/Drik/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
The Southport riots were not an accident, but rather the result of unregulated social media platforms amplifying far-right disinformation. Lies about the attacker's identity spread unchecked, inciting hate and violence. Tech billionaires profit while fascist agitators radicalise the public. It's time to break this toxic cycle with urgent regulation and a crackdown on far-right extremism.
Right narrative
The riots in Southport resulted from a government that hid vital information and failed to act. Rudakubana was flagged repeatedly, yet nothing was done. Then, when tragedy struck, police refused to speak, fuelling public outrage and online speculation. Reports can cite disinformation all they please, but last summer's blame lies solely on ineptitude and silence from the state.