This report explores the rise of far-right discourse in Northern Ireland on social media has become a key platform for spreading racist stereotypes, misinformation, and hate targeting migrants and minority ethnic communities. Drawing on detailed case studies, it outlines how such narratives—often rooted in discredited ideas like the “great replacement theory”—fuel fear, division, and in some cases, real-world violence and intimidation.
The report also highlights how these online harms are occurring within a wider context of racial attacks and threats, some involving paramilitary-linked actors, prompting calls for urgent action from the UN anti-racism committee.
Beyond documenting the problem, the report examines the legal obligations of public authorities and elected representatives under domestic and international human rights frameworks. It calls for stronger leadership, clearer accountability, and proactive measures across government, housing, education, and policing sectors.
Key recommendations include enforcing existing hate crime laws, improving social media regulation, challenging racist misinformation, and ensuring public authorities fulfil their duties to promote good relations and protect vulnerable communities.
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