Thousands attend anti-racism rallies after unrest in Belfast

Thousands of people have taken part in anti-racism demonstrations in Northern Ireland following several days of anti-immigrant violence in Belfast.

The rallies were held on Saturday outside Belfast City Hall, with protesters carrying placards bearing messages such as “Hate is the only threat to our streets” and “Belfast stands against racism”. A similar demonstration also took place in Derry (Londonderry).

The protests come after two nights of unrest and racist violence triggered by a viral video of a stabbing incident in Belfast earlier in the week. The footage sparked public disorder and attacks targeting immigrants.

Authorities say the violence began after the incident on Monday night, in which a man was seen attacking another person with a knife. A Sudanese national has since appeared in court charged with attempted murder in connection with the case.

Human rights groups and community leaders joined the anti-racism rallies, saying the majority of people in Belfast reject racism and want peace in the city.

Amnesty International’s Northern Ireland director said the protests sent a clear message that migrants and minorities are welcome, despite recent violence. He also criticised authorities for not being fully prepared for the unrest, warning that racist violence has been recurring in recent summers.

Northern Ireland officials have condemned the attacks, saying some residents were intimidated and even forced out of their homes based on their race.

The situation has raised wider concerns about rising anti-immigrant sentiment in the UK and Ireland, where immigration has become a politically sensitive issue in recent years.

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