Hundreds gathered in Belfast today for a Refugees Welcome demonstration, showing solidarity with refugees following recent violent attacks against migrants and refugees across Northern Ireland.
During the event, one man from a small ‘anti-immigration’ counter-protest was detained by police after a missile was thrown at the Refugees Welcome rally.
The demonstration follows recent incidents in Belfast and Ballymena, where refugee and migrant communities have faced firebomb attacks and intimidation. Amnesty International is calling on both the Northern Ireland Executive and Westminster to take effective action to ensure the safety and rights of all those seeking refuge.
Addressing the crowd, Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty International’s Northern Ireland Director, said:
“Good afternoon and thanks to United Against Racism for organising this opportunity to stand together in solidarity and in the unwavering belief that every human being deserves dignity, justice, and the right to seek safety.
“Keir Starmer recently said the UK was in danger of becoming ‘an island of strangers’. I prefer the words of our great poet William Butler Yeats: ‘There are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t yet met.’
“Refugees are our neighbours, our classmates, our co-workers and, yes, our friends. They deserve protection, dignity, and a fair chance.
“Yet, instead of a welcome, too many encounter hostility and even violence. In Belfast, in Ballymena and other towns across Northern Ireland, refugees and migrants have faced intimidation, bricks and firebombs. Homes, businesses and community centres have been destroyed. That lives have not been lost is nothing short of a miracle.
“Anti-immigration and anti-refugee agitators promote fear, division, and misinformation – spread on social media like a hate virus.
“Refugees are not the cause of our problems. They are not invaders. They are survivors. Their courage is an inspiration, and their rights are our responsibility.
“Let us be clear: refugees have the right to seek asylum. This is not just a moral imperative – it is a legal obligation, enshrined in international law and in the values that bind us as a global community. No border, no government and no prejudice can dissolve that right.
“We must challenge the hostile rhetoric.
“We must challenge unfair immigration policies.
“We must challenge the scapegoating of those with the least power, who ask only for a chance to live in peace.
“We reject the politics of hate and fear.
“We demand safe routes, fair treatment and human rights for all.
“To every refugee and asylum seeker listening now: you are not alone. This city, this movement, and our voices are for you.
“So, let’s say it loud and say it clear. Refugees are welcome here.”