Understanding Xenophobia and Oikophobia in the UK: A Contemporary Analysis

The notion of the UK becoming increasingly xenophobic is a complex and multifaceted issue. While it is true that societal attitudes have fluctuated over time, the current landscape reflects a more nuanced and nuanced issue: the growing concern of oikophobia, a fear or prejudice against foreign-born individuals and their cultural practices. This article explores these themes, drawing from personal anecdotes and broader social observations to provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Xenophobia in Historical Context

Xenophobia and racism were indeed more prevalent in the 1980s. During this period, open and overt expressions of such sentiments were an unfortunate reality. As a half-Korean individual, I witnessed firsthand the derogatory words and actions towards POC (People of Color) during this time. Such experiences included being labeled “the half-chink babe” and hearing crude slurs directed at a classmate that unfortunately do not require repetition.

Although today’s racists are more cunning, often resorting to private racism rather than public expressions, the issue persists. The arrival of new immigrants further complicates the situation, as different communities face their own set of challenges. For instance, tensions often arise between Muslims and Jews, and within POC communities, there is a phenomenon of colourism. These internal conflicts can lead to a form of racism where the majority of the “racism” is observed within POC communities rather than from the "White British" population.

The Rise of Oikophobia

Contrary to the idea of the UK being a haven of xenophobia, the increasingly open embrace of diversity through the leadership of immigrants and their descendants suggests a more inclusive society. The fact that all four Great Offices of State have been filled by individuals with immigrant backgrounds or whose parents were immigrants is a powerful testament to the UK's progressive nature. This reality challenges the notion of the UK being closed to foreigners.

Moreover, London, being the most international city in the world, challenges the concept of xenophobia. The UK's acceptance of immigrants and their integration into the country's governance structure speaks to a more open and inclusive society, rather than one that is exclusively xenophobic.

A Critical Perspective

While the UK may not be as xenophobic as some other countries, it is essential to recognize that the issue extends beyond traditional forms of xenophobia. The term "oikophobia", coined here to describe a fear or prejudice towards those who are perceived as foreign or exotic, is becoming increasingly prevalent. This fear can be observed in the backlash against foreign religious leaders who seek to divide the community they have fled to.

These dynamics reflect a more atomized society, where people are more likely to view others through the lens of race, religion, country of origin, region, and political affiliation. This division can be seen in the reactions towards the EU's misconduct, where external factors are often blamed, rather than the complexity of internal and external issues.

It is important to acknowledge that the UK's future is not solely defined by a single political party or ideological perspective. While the left-wing media may portray a narrative of ideological uniformity, the reality is more complex. The UK's rejection of the EU marks a significant shift, and ongoing debates on immigration and other issues reflect a society grappling with these complex challenges.

The UK's journey towards becoming a truly inclusive and accepting society is ongoing. Understanding and addressing the nuances of xenophobia and oikophobia can help shape a future where all individuals, regardless of their origins, are valued and respected.