Epping is what happens when refugees are dehumanised

We are deeply concerned by the events in Epping, where over 1,000 far-right protesters gathered outside a hotel accommodating people seeking asylum. This kind of organised hate — aimed at some of the most vulnerable in our society — is a serious and growing threat.

Let’s be clear: people seeking asylum are not the cause of this crisis. They are its victims. Fleeing war, persecution, and violence, they have every right to seek safety here. And to do so without being met by angry mobs or political scapegoating.

The conditions that made Epping possible have not appeared overnight. Years of hostile rhetoric, dehumanising asylum policies, and inflammatory media coverage have created an environment in which far-right groups feel entitled to organise and intimidate with impunity. Responsibility lies not only with those shouting outside the hotel, but with those in power who have normalised their language.

We call for an urgent shift away from fearmongering and division, and toward an approach rooted in compassion, fairness, and human rights. Communities across the UK have consistently shown that solidarity is stronger than hate — and we will continue to stand with those targeted by racism, xenophobia, and violence.

Refugee rights are human rights. Now more than ever, we must defend them.