By Julie Hodgson, Freelance Journalist.
As right-wing political movements continue to gain momentum across parts of the Western world, human rights experts and civil society groups are sounding the alarm over a growing culture of fear, division, and institutional cruelty. Critics argue that while the language of law and order may appeal to some voters, the long-term consequences of these ideologies are dangerous for both democracy and the social wellbeing of all citizens.
One of the starkest examples comes from the United States, where agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have become symbols of heavy-handed enforcement under right-wing administrations. Reports of mass detentions, family separations, and the criminalisation of asylum seekers have raised international concern. “When political leaders promote fear of the ‘other,’ institutions like ICE are not just upholding the law—they’re enforcing an ideology that sees some lives as less valuable than others,” said a spokesperson from the Human Rights Coalition.
But the impact of this political shift doesn’t stop at the institutional level. Experts warn that the growing normalisation of divisive rhetoric and punitive policies encourages everyday bullying and hate. “We’ve seen a sharp rise in racially motivated attacks, anti-LGBTQ+ incidents, and general intolerance in schools and public spaces,” said community advocate Carla Reyes. “When leaders model cruelty and exclusion, it gives permission for others to follow suit.” As democratic values such as inclusion, justice, and compassion come under strain, many are urging citizens to remain vigilant, speak out, and stand up for the vulnerable—before the damage becomes irreversible.
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