Europe-Demonizing Immigrants

In the past year, tens of thousands hostile to immigrants marched through London chanting “send them home!” A British lawmaker complained of seeing too many non-white faces on TV. And senior politicians advocated the deportation of longtime U.K. residents born abroad. The overt demonization of immigrants and those with immigrant roots is intensifying in the U.K. and elsewhere in Europe as migration shoots up the political agenda and right-wing parties gain popularity. Politicians have made controversial remarks about race without facing consequences. Social media and economic factors contribute to this climate. Despite mainstream parties condemning racist rhetoric, they are adopting tougher immigration policies. Experts warn that angry rhetoric fuels division and violence.