Part 9/14:
Adding to the chaos are efforts to suppress free speech under the guise of combating extremism. UK authorities have declared criticism of grooming gangs and immigration issues as potential signs of far-right extremism, effectively curbing open debate. Laws such as the Online Safety Bill threaten to criminalize online expression, imposing broad restrictions that can criminalize any offensive speech.
Public outrage and protests reveal a disconnect between government policies and citizens’ concerns. The clampdown on online communication, coupled with censorship of controversial topics, signals a troubling erosion of civil liberties.