‘Inciting a Pogrom?’: Social Media and Racist Disorder in Ballymena

Join the Bloody Sunday Trust for an information session and discussion on ‘

This new research report, published by the in partnership with , builds on the earlier study.

The report examines the racist violence that erupted in Ballymena in June 2025 and rapidly spread across the north of Ireland. It explores how online narratives amplified fear and hostility, fuelling offline attacks, and how local organising efforts and political responses shaped the escalation.

• Online misinformation and anti-immigrant narratives played a central role in mobilising violence and intimidation.
• Community-based Facebook groups became hubs for sustaining anti-immigrant activity.
• Political discourse often blurred the line between condemning violence and legitimising xenophobic concerns.
• Thousands of minority ethnic residents — particularly Roma families — were displaced as a direct result.

The report calls for urgent reforms, including:

• Stronger hate crime legislation;
• Improved policing responses;
• Proactive action by government, trade unions, and NGOs to challenge racist narratives and misinformation.

By documenting both online and offline dynamics, the research seeks to strengthen anti-racism strategies, inform public policy, and promote collective solidarity in resisting far-right mobilisation.

The session will include presentations from:

• Shannon Doherty (CAJ)
• Dessie Donnelly (Rabble Cooperative)

Followed by a Q&A discussion.

Tea & coffee provided.

📅 Date & Time: Saturday 6 December, 1pm - 2.30pm
📍 Venue: Museum of Free Derry
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