Is nationalism fuelling racist attacks against African migrants?
Aug 27, 2024
auto_awesome
Toyyib Adelodun, a Nigerian migrant in the UK, shares his harrowing experiences of rising nationalism and its link to racist attacks against African migrants. He reflects on the shock of witnessing violent protests fueled by misinformation, particularly surrounding a tragic incident involving the deaths of three girls. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of social media in spreading xenophobia and the challenges that migrants face in their quest for belonging and acceptance in foreign cultures.
Nationalism's rise globally, fueled by economic anxieties and political rhetoric, exacerbates xenophobia and hostility towards African immigrants.
Both Nigerian and Zambian migrants face significant challenges in their host countries, grappling with discrimination and contrasting expectations of belonging.
Deep dives
The Rise of Nationalism and Its Impact on Immigrants
Nationalism is increasingly becoming a global phenomenon, with many countries experiencing a rise in exclusionary attitudes towards immigrants, particularly those who are black or brown. This surge in nationalism is often fueled by economic anxieties and political rhetoric that frames immigrants as competitors for limited resources, which exacerbates xenophobia. Such an environment creates a narrative where immigrants are seen not only as outsiders but also as threats to national identity and jobs. The inherent difference between patriotism and nationalism underscores this tension, as patriotism can foster community, while nationalism often incites division and hostility.
Experiences of African Immigrants in the UK and South Africa
African immigrants often encounter significant challenges in both the UK and South Africa, navigating complex social environments that can be both welcoming and hostile. For example, Nigerian civil engineer Toyib Adelodun shares his journey in London, highlighting the initial optimism that turned into anxiety as stories of violence and unrest emerged. In South Africa, Zambian student Wallace Musonda emphasizes the struggles faced due to language barriers and cultural differences, which create feelings of alienation despite being on the African continent. Both experiences reveal a stark contrast between expectations of belonging and the reality of discrimination and fear based on nationality and race.
The Role of Politics and Media in Xenophobia
Political figures and the media play a crucial role in shaping public attitudes towards immigrants, often exploiting existing grievances to further their agendas. The rhetoric used by politicians tends to define immigrants as the 'other,' which can legitimize xenophobic sentiments and violence against these groups. Social media amplifies this issue by spreading misinformation and fostering environments where hate speech flourishes, impacting perceptions of immigrants in real-life interactions. This toxic combination of political exploitation and media influence heightens divisions and perpetuates the cycle of xenophobia and nationalism seen globally.
“It becomes scary when you see people that would normally smile at you - and all of a sudden you see so many people on the streets making those kind of chants. And you think, 'wow, what has been going on underground? This is the city that I used to know. Why should I now be extra watchful? What exactly is going on?'” - Toyyib Adelodun, Nigerian migrant in the UK
The world watched in shock as police cars were destroyed and shops and properties belonging to foreign nationals targeted in the UK, earlier this month.
The riots were triggered by the killing of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event for children in Southport, northern England.
False rumours were spread on social media that the teenager charged with the murders was a Muslim migrant.
There were similar events in the township of Soweto in South Africa recently.
Shops belonging to African immigrants were forced to shut down, after a foreign national was accused of attacking a local resident.
Alan Kasujja attempts to find out if these are isolated incidents or if there is a political ideology driving them.
Guests: Professor Bongani Ngqulunga, Toyyib Adelodun and Wallace Musonda
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode