With local elections coming up in the UK this week, it's worth pointing out the impact of modern geopolitics (like Iran, Palestine and Pakistan), the economics of the perceived cost of asylum seekers and a deep frustration with the pace of cultural change, diaspora identity, and social media algorithms intersect to create incredibly rigid worldviews.
Noticeably, narratives are no longer just about sharing information. It provides a sense of community and shared identity.
You often see people trying to convince others to bring them into their shared reality. Those who get their news from echo chambers rarely use words like "might" or "possibly." They speak in absolute certainties because that is how information is framed on TikTok, X, YouTube or in WhatsApp groups.
What is surprising is also how simplistic band-aid solutions are seen as the way forward, rather than understanding the complexities of issues, as well as the need for experience, continuity and a healthy mix of both short and long-term actions / strategies.
Unfortunately rising council taxes, increasing rhetoric and the cost of living is pushing people to consider political parties which ultimately may not be in their best interests. Britain has been undermined by different extremist views which have fractured out ability to navigate the increasing uncertainty of a precarious world.
People are afraid and need to feel confident in their leaders. We have seen glimmers, but the messaging has not been strong enough or appreciative of how influential technology affects consumption of information. Because of this, I believe things will get worse before they get better. I hope I'm wrong.
Our current prime minister has kept us from going to war in a climate of ongoing international drama. He's managed under challenging circumstances and stroking the political ambitions within his party by a change of leadership is only going to see our country stagger brokenly through the remainder of their tenure, much like the spectacle of the last government.
On May 7, when people vote in local elections, they should be mindful of the current environment of the possibility of war, continuing global and economic uncertainty, and the need for intelligent politicians who will govern us well.
