Xenophobia and Racism: INCIDENTAL THREATS TO AVIATION

Xenophobia and Racism: INCIDENTAL THREATS TO AVIATION

This podcast from Transport Security International Magazine explores the concerning rise in xenophobia and racism, particularly against those of Asian descent, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines how this heightened prejudice, fuelled by conspiracy theories and the spread of misinformation, poses a significant threat to the aviation industry. The podcast highlights the potential for increased abuse and violence against individuals of perceived Asian ethnicity, particularly airline staff and passengers, as travel restrictions ease and people return to the skies. Additionally, the piece explores the connection between the far right and the escalation of extremist violence, discussing the growing influence of online platforms in radicalising individuals and propagating hateful ideologies. It warns that this trend, alongside the pandemic-related anxieties and societal divisions, could lead to an escalation of incidents within the aviation sector, posing a potential threat to the safety and well-being of staff and passengers alike.