Following the tragic knife attack in Belfast, we continue to see anti-migrant violence and intimidation spreading across the UK.
We reiterate our ask for the Government and all democratic political parties to lead by example: to change the narrative, to end the use of divisive rhetoric, to treat everyone in society with dignity and respect, regardless of circumstance or background, to put an end to policies that treat people seeking asylum and refugees as ‘illegal’, to protect human rights, and to foster a culture in which local communities are places of welcome and unity.
This violence does not emerge in a vacuum, but has been fuelled by the anti-migrant, racist and Islamophobic rhetoric spread online, amplified in certain media coverage, and by some political actors.
ILPA will continue to work with the Government, public bodies and communities to support the action needed to promote a fair and humane approach to migration, one that upholds the rule of law, respects international obligations, and reflects the dignity of every person in our society.
And we continue to stand in solidarity with migrants and racialised communities, and those representing and supporting them.
11 June 2026
- Document Date
- Thursday June 11, 2026