The conversation at SXSW London 2026 took an urgent and thought-provoking turn as experts delved into the rise of fascism and its global impact. The session, titled "The Authoritarian Creep: How Far Right Rhetoric Impacts Culture," brought together a diverse panel of speakers, each with a unique perspective on this pressing issue.
The Global Nature of Authoritarianism
Agnès Callamard, General Secretary at Amnesty International, emphasized that the rise of authoritarianism is not confined to any specific region or country. It's a global phenomenon, according to organizations that monitor the health of democracy. This crisis is characterized by political figures weaponizing disinformation, attacks on freedom of expression, and the criminalization of solidarity and dissent. Callamard highlighted how certain communities are being scapegoated, and the world has turned fear and division into tools of governance.
Personal Experiences and the Legacy of Empire
Misan Harriman, a photographer and activist, shared his personal experiences as a child of empire, born in Nigeria. He linked the discussion on authoritarianism to ethno-supremacy, invoking the tragic deaths of George Stinney and Emmett Till. Harriman emphasized the importance of recognizing the humanity in all of us, regardless of our backgrounds, and using our privilege to amplify diverse stories and experiences.
The Impact on Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Josie Fernandez-Marelli, CEO and co-founder of refugee NGO Choose Love, spoke about the criminalization and ostracization of refugees and asylum seekers, particularly in the UK with the rise of far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Fernandez-Marelli highlighted the increased need for mental health support among refugees due to the consequences of racist rhetoric and marches.
The Role of Social Media and Tech
Callamard and Harriman both addressed the role of unregulated social media and big tech in spreading deep divides. Callamard mentioned court cases in Kenya related to ethnic-based crimes led through social media, emphasizing the need to fight against algorithms that promote rage and division. Harriman quoted Rumi and a line from Andor, highlighting the importance of raising our words, not our voices, and the vulnerability that arises when truth is ripped away.
A Call for Matriarchy and Courageous Action
When asked about their vision for change, the panel unanimously agreed on the need for a matriarchy. Callamard emphasized the importance of fighting back, citing historical examples of resistance against colonialism and the fight for civil rights in the US. Harriman encouraged the audience to lean into getting to know communities they may have been told to fear, emphasizing the commonalities and shared humanity.
Conclusion
This session at SXSW London served as a powerful reminder of the global nature of authoritarianism and the urgent need for action. The personal stories and insights shared by the panelists highlighted the impact of far-right rhetoric on culture and the importance of solidarity and understanding. As we navigate these challenging times, it's crucial to recognize the power of diverse voices and the potential for positive change.
