Immigration Becomes Top Concern for Britons

For the first time since 2016, immigration has emerged as the primary concern for Britons, with 34% citing it as the most pressing issue, according to an Ipsos poll. This shift in public sentiment follows a series of violent riots targeting Muslims and migrants, which were partly fueled by misinformation about a stabbing incident involving a 17-year-old boy. The unrest, characterized by attacks on asylum seeker accommodations and mosques, has led to increased anxiety about crime and race relations, with 11% of respondents also highlighting these as major issues. Net migration to the UK reached a record high of 764,000 in 2022 but dropped to 685,000 in 2023, yet public concern remains elevated. Amidst this turmoil, many participated in anti-racism demonstrations, indicating a societal pushback against the xenophobia that has surfaced. The events underscore a long-standing ideological battle over immigration in the UK, historically influenced by political rhetoric and media framing.