Published on 16th Dec, 2024
In October, Social Change Initiative (SCI) hosted a virtual event with Ciarán O’Connor, Senior Analyst at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) where he shared key findings from ISD’s report ‘Clout, Clicks and Kicks’, which examines the surge in anti-migrant harassment and violence across Ireland between May and August 2024.
Below are some of the key insights:
- Surge in Extremism
The report revealed a worrying increase in racially motivated violence, including arson attacks, physical assaults, and targeted harassment of migrants. These incidents often occurred near asylum-seeker accommodation centres and were frequently driven by organised far-right groups spreading hateful narratives. Ciarán explained how extremism influencers were able to exploit social tensions, weaponizing disinformation to fuel fear and influence hostility toward migrants
- The Harmful Power of Social Media
Ciarán also highlighted the central role of social media in amplifying extremist content. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Telegram are used by these groups to promote inflammatory posts, relying on algorithms designed to boost sensational and attention-grabbing content. Despite efforts to ban repeat offenders, many extremists continue to create new accounts, using these platforms for visibility and financial gain.
- A Call for Collective Action
Ciarán concluded the presentation by stressing the urgent need for a collective response involving tech companies, governments, and civil society. Attendees from SCI’s local and global networks joined the discussion highlighting the need to strengthen accountability, advocate for policy reform, and mobilise grassroots action to combat online hate.
Reflecting on the event, SCI’s Deputy Director Padraic Quirk said:
“Thanks to ISD for sharing these important insights and to Ciarán for your in-depth analysis. It's through collaborations like this that we can make real progress in responding to the damaging effects of on and offline hate. . Fighting hate and violence isn't just about policies, it’s about all of us coming together to support one another and to build bridges instead of walls.”
You can watch Ciarán’s full presentation below:
