By Ryan Hansen 
In recent weeks, England has been swept up in a surge of civil unrest, stirring concern and debate across social media platforms. These reports of violent protests and riots seem to be concentrated in certain areas of the country. The controversy has been further fuelled by accusations of two-tier policing, suggesting a dual approach where riots are dealt with differently across regions. This has sparked outcry and varying viewpoints from the public and media. Detractors assert this is a myth, while others insist it is a legitimate issue.
Essentially, far right mobs have taken to looting and rioting in Manchester, England while also accusing immigrants of committing the same crimes. Concerns over unrest have begun to grow in Manchester, as series of social media posts from diverse users reflect their worry and perspectives on recent riots. Ranging from the righteous indignation of the aggrieved, to the prejudiced vitriol of the provocateurs, these snapshots of social outcry provide a broader window to the worsening situation in the city. Recent reports highlight a concerning rise in violence and public disorder, a situation further aggravated by incidents such as the one in Manchester Airport and increasing racial tensions. These unfolding conflicts have penetrated the social fabric, breeding a sense of fear and insecurity among residents. Although the Manchester Authorities are known to preemptively respond to the potential flashpoints, the attention isn’t always met with approval.
Critics argue that different situations are being treated differently; for instance, the handling of far-right riots and protests prompted by the Black Lives Matter movement. Accusations of ‘two-tier’ policing are rife, fueling further civil unrest. “Racism, Islamophobia, Racist, Riots” – Tweeted one user, expressing his disgruntlement at the situation in Manchester. This rhetoric is reciprocated by many who fault the government and its policing policies, for allegedly fueling the unrest. However, not everyone agrees with this sentiment. Other social media users have raised concerns over what they believe to be the justification of violent protests. Contrastingly, they bring up terrorist attacks, such as the ones committed by Islamist terrorists in Manchester, as situations that did not lead to riots. Others further note the rise in Islamophobia and racial conflicts in not only Manchester, but across Britain. Posts tagged with #riotsUK, #Manchester, and #Islamophobia, among others, portray a troubling landscape of social tensions.
Meanwhile, local businesses suffer the brunt of the chaos. Multiple employees have been reportedly sent home due to the severity of the situation, causing a severe impact on the area’s commerce. While the unfolding situation has injected a sense of grim chaos into the city, it’s worth remembering that the root of the problem extends far beyond recent flare-ups. It speaks to systemic issues that need to be addressed in society, explicit and veiled racism, hostility towards immigrants, and the socio-economic crisis crippling the city. As Manchester finds itself at the crossroads of these significant challenges, it remains to be seen how the city will grapple with its crises. At present, the pressing issue is to restore calm and negotiate tensions before they escalate further. The long-term solution would naturally be a more profound structural change that addresses the root of the social problems.
English people, acting like actual Nazis.
— Vic and Bob (@IsItTrue_false) August 5, 2024
Wanting England to be "great again"
You know…..like when we fought the Nazis.
Fucking idiots.
Prominent critics and zealots such as Elon Musk, Tommy Robinson, Nigel Farage, and Laurence Fox have been accused of inciting disturbances in England. Yet, critics argue that their influence is distant or misleading. Many have responded by arguing against these sentiments and further highlighting the regional nuances of the unrest. Contrasting the unrest in England, users have pointed out the absence of riots in Scotland. As tension continues to rise, incidents of hate speech and attacks on specific communities, such as Muslims, have been reported. Riots have also been named as aiding far-right groups in their targeted assault on these communities.
In a show of unity, communities have started to band together in the post-riot clean up. Discussions between Muslim organizations and Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, have taken place to ensure the safety of the community.