THE National is launching a series highlighting the positive stories of refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland.
From Monday to Friday next week, the campaign will focus on telling the often unheard stories of those who have come to Scotland to escape persecution and find a better, safer life.
Amidst the increasingly hostile political climate, we want to:
- Showcase how refugees and asylum seekers across Scotland have brought positive impacts to their communities
- Profile the people helping them to settle into their new homes
- Show how those from refugee backgrounds are making a difference to public life in Scotland.
- Challenge the misinformation and right-wing rhetoric dominating the conversation around refugees and asylum seekers
Last summer we saw riots kick off across England and Wales based on misinformation about asylum seekers, with protesters making violent threats towards them.
And in recent weeks, the far-right have increased their presence in Scotland – targeting a hotel in Falkirk and planning demonstrations in other towns and cities.
One protester was seen waving a flag reading "Kill 'em all and let God sort 'em out", while a speaker called to "keep Britain white" in a speech.
Meanwhile, politicians in England are standing up for those involved in these kinds of protests.
Poll after poll predicts a Reform majority at the next Westminster election. Though they are expected to make little progress in Scotland, they are expected to pick up a significant number of seats in Holyrood in 2026.
Journalists have a responsibility to correct misinformation and hateful rhetoric.
At The National, we choose to fight back against right-wing, anti-refugee commentary.
Of course it can be scary to stand up against those trying to spread hatred and division. However, more of us must do so if we want to stop it from growing even further.
From Monday to Friday, you can read our series "Refugees Are Welcome Here" in print and online.
Before you go: Please consider supporting The National with a subscription to help us produce more of this work challenging right-wing media narratives.
