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The University of Manchester hosted a panel discussion comprised of academics and politicians to explore the causes and impact of the civil unrest that gripped swathes of UK towns and cities during the summer of 2024.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragic deaths of three young girls in Southport, far-right, anti-immigration riots and protests erupted, fuelled by the spread of misinformation and expressions of toxic masculinity.

Hosted by Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, panellists included Rob Ford, Professor of Political Science, Hilary Pilkington, Professor of Sociology, Peter Knight, Professor of American Studies, David Gadd, Professor of Criminology, Bridget Byrne, Professor in Sociology, and Afzal Khan, Member of Parliament for 91直播 Rusholme.

Attended by civic leaders, policymakers and politicians, the panel discussion covered a broad range of issues related to the civil unrest, including the role social media played in the rapid spread of misinformation and to what extent this acted as a catalyst for rioting across England and Northern Ireland.

While the UK is often cited as a nation that embraces multiculturalism, the hostility many face due to Islamophobia and its prevalence in the UK was raised. It was also discussed how anti-immigration sentiment is likely to become more prevalent in public discourse if far-right rhetoric among political groups, and traditional and social media, continues to rise.

On the topic of the motivations of the people who engaged with the riots, class struggles, toxic masculinities and family problems were remarked upon as potential contributors. The wider UK context, including the stripping back of public services and community centres in recent years, was also acknowledged.

As for the aftermath of the unrest, statistics from public polling were also shared. According to YouGov, 85% of the public were opposed to the summer riots, and 82% said they were unjustified.

In discussion on how to take learnings forward, a breadth of potential solutions were discussed from tackling social inequalities as part of wider strategies on cohesion, delving into the state of community services, and investing in social relationships. A need for social media platforms to adhere to their crisis protocols was also identified and, for the traditional media, a need for sensitive issues to be taken more seriously to prevent misinformation and for politicians to be held to account more effectively.

Members of the audience were invited to discuss what role institutions such as universities, schools, local politicians and policymakers, religious organisations and community groups should play in promoting societal cohesion.

Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester said: 鈥淭he riots that occurred this summer were shocking and frightening for many in our communities, and I am determined that The University of Manchester works collaboratively with our community partners to continue the constructive dialogue about the issues we identified at the workshop and identify actions we can implement together.

鈥淯niversities have an important role in bringing people together from wide sections of society and it was heartening to see a diverse group of civic leaders at the event, all with a positive attitude for long term change.鈥�

Ultimately, it is hoped the event served as a springboard for further discussion and meaningful action that tackles the causes of civil unrest, helping to prevent these events from occurring in the future.

Top image from left to right: David Gadd, Hilary Pilkington, Rob Ford, Peter Knight, Bridget Byrne, Afzal Khan and Duncan Ivison