Recent Violence in the UK: what should we learn?

In recent weeks, parts of the UK have witnessed violence and disorder, with scenes that have shocked and disrupted many communities. From my perspective as Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, this prompts three responses.

First, condemnation of the violence, beginning with the original attack in Southport. This was an egregious act of violence against women and girls, and my heart goes out to the victims and their families during this incredibly difficult time. But also, condemnation of the public disorder we have seen since. There is no place for any form of violence in our society and violence directed against people because of their race, religion or status is not only a violation of individual rights but an affront to the principles of equality and human dignity that our society is built upon.

This behaviour fractures the very fabric of our diverse communities, spreading fear and mistrust. It is crucial that the police address violent disorder and criminal harassment decisively, ensuring that justice is served. I am pleased to see that the police and courts have been acting swiftly to bring perpetrators to justice.

Second, reflection on how the disorder was fomented. While our society values the right to express diverse opinions, there is a clear boundary where this right ends and where violence begins. Attempts to incite violence, hatred or discrimination in our communities are never acceptable and can be unlawful. Especially if they are directed towards people on the basis of protected characteristics such as race and religion.

In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for communication, but those who exercise that power must do so responsibly. Public bodies and people in positions of authority and influence who are subject to the Public Sector Equality Duty must bear in mind their responsibilities to foster good relations when engaging online, especially during times of heightened tension. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it must be exercised responsibly and never stray into hate speech or incitement.

Social media platforms have a significant role to play in preventing the spread of hate speech and incitement, and there is an ongoing debate about the extent of the state’s role in regulating these platforms during periods of unrest. It is right that Government and regulators think seriously about how social media platforms can do more to prevent misinformation and hate speech.

As the Government sought to do just this through the Online Safety Act last year, we advised on the extent to which free speech is protected under law. Under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), free speech and peaceful protest, vital components of a healthy democracy, are protected, however these rights are not absolute. The Convention includes clauses that allow for exemptions in the interest of public safety, particularly when expression crosses the line into incitement of racial hatred or violence. Protecting free speech while preventing bad actors poses a significant challenge to Governments and regulators across the world. While it may be tempting in light of the events of the last few weeks to give more attention to what people should not be saying online, we will continue to remind Government and Parliament of their duty under the ECHR to protect free speech too – it is the bedrock of democracy.

Third, conscious that at the Equality and Human Rights Commission, we are committed to fostering good relations between different groups in society, promoting understanding, and ensuring that the human rights of all individuals are upheld. We advised candidates in the recent election campaign on the desirability of measured and temperate public discourse. We welcome, and stand ready to support, work in central and local Government on how to reduce community tensions and encourage different groups to come together, focusing on what unites, not what divides us. However, there are limitations to this role. While we strive to influence public policy and advocate for the protection of rights, the enforcement of criminal law and the maintenance of public order are responsibilities that rest squarely with the state. We stand ready to support them when they exercise those responsibilities. Irrespective of Government, we all as citizens, need to reflect on the events of the last few weeks and work to reduce the risk of this happening again within our families, communities and more widely. British people have a long tradition of coming together and resolving our differences peaceably, we must demonstrate these values now.

Kishwer Falkner

Chair, Equality and Human Rights Commission