A few weeks ago I spoke to Motaz Amer about the UK Home Office posting deportation videos on their TikTok account.

We discussed how these videos frame enforcement as entertainment, the ways in which this content further inflames divisions on issues like immigration, and whether government social media accounts should be used for such campaigning.

My contribution is below:

Dr Paul Reilly, Senior Lecturer in Communications, Media, and Democracy at the University of Glasgow, has suggested there is little evidence that such content will significantly change minds. Those who favour stricter border controls are unlikely to need persuading and those opposed to raids and deportations are unlikely to be swayed by viral clips.

He added, while social media may not change entrenched views, what it can amplify strong reactions. Platforms reward outrage and affirmation rather than thoughtful debate. In that environment, migration risks becoming reduced to imagery and slogans instead of evidence and policy.

It also features commentary from my Glasgow University colleague Catriona Forrest and the Scottish Refugee Council.

Thanks to Motaz for the interview. The article, published in both the Glasgow Guardian and Bylines Scotland, can be viewed here.