This statement was published on 27th August 2025 

We are incredibly concerned about recent protests in Aberdeen which have targeted accommodation where people seeking asylum are staying. We must live our values as a Partnership and speak out in the face of racism and discrimination, countering misinformation with facts. 

Although these protests are presented as protecting women and children, they instead fuel division and hostility. We recognise that local communities may have concerns, but these are often influenced by far-right disinformation and fear. Reports of verbal abuse, attempts to enter accommodation, and intimidation of residents show the harmful impact of such actions. They create distress for people already in vulnerable circumstances, hinder constructive dialogue, and distract from the real issues affecting communities. 

Let us be clear- NO ONE IS ILLEGAL! No one, no matter how they reached our shores, is illegal. Language and words matter. People who have sought asylum in this country have endured untold trauma and hardship and are afforded the right to make a claim for asylum under the Refugee Convention. We should be doing what we can as communities to promote tolerance and integration and upholding the rights of individuals. 

If, like us, you have been feeling despondent or at a loss of what you can do, we have a list of actions that people can consider according to personal comfort: 

• Be mindful of language used when discussing people seeking asylum and refugees 

• Dispel the disinformation, bust the myths – ensure you are educated and armed with facts to have conversations with others. We include a range of resources that help you. 

• Share factually correct posts on social media. Scottish Refugee Council did a great post on Instagram that concisely and visually challenged common myths. 

• Report Hate Crimes observed. GREC have great information on their website regarding what you can do and how to report a hate crime via the police or other third party reporting centres. 

• If someone has experienced a Hate Crime they can seek support from GREC’s case working team. 

• Various groups around Aberdeen collaborate on organising counter protests, in line with reported demonstrations at hotels, to stand in solidarity with the residents and create a protective barrier between the protesters and the hotel. Information can be found on social media via Aberdeen Social Centre, Stand Up to Racism Aberdeen, Aberdeen Anti-Fascist Alliance and others. The Partnership does not affiliate with any groups, these adverts have been observed widely across the internet. *Reminder to anyone attending protests, know your rights and stay safe.* 

• Protect your own wellbeing. It can be exhausting in the onslaught of such hatred so it is important to make time for your own mental health and know when to pause or close out on content. 

The NRNE Partnership will be considering how we can effectively work alongside the wider sector and communities as they seek to de-escalate tensions and dispel disinformation. We can and should all do our bit.