How the radical right, by lying and spreading panic around Ceuta, feeds the algorithms and their popularity

A radical right-wing political group has been using false information and spreading fear around the humanitarian crisis in Ceuta, Spain, to fuel its popularity and influence. According to recent reports, over 57 migrants have died among approximately 60,000 illegal immigrants who attempted to cross into Spanish territory from Morocco. Among them, it is estimated that hundreds of children were also affected. The situation has sparked widespread concern, with many viewing it as a potential humanitarian disaster. The political fallout extends far beyond the immediate crisis in Ceuta. In Croatia, a prominent member of the ruling party Most, Marin Miletić, has used his platform to amplify fears surrounding the migration issue. In a video message, he called on citizens to witness the unfolding events in Ceuta, warning that thousands of migrants are entering Spanish ports and then moving deep into Spain. His rhetoric suggests a narrative that paints the influx of migrants as a direct threat to national security and stability. However, this portrayal is misleading. Ceuta is a Spanish enclave located on the African continent, not part of mainland Spain. For such an incursion to occur, massive military operations would be required, something that Miletić’s statements fail to acknowledge. This kind of misinformation is not unique to Croatia. It reflects a broader pattern observed across Europe, where populist leaders exploit public anxiety to advance their agendas. In Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has already proposed measures that could exclude Spain from the Schengen Agreement, a move supported by Finland's Interior Minister Mari Rantanen. Both leaders belong to politically aligned parties, the Brothers of Italy and the True Finns, that share similar views on immigration. While Ceuta is not within the Schengen area, the implications of such proposals highlight how political discourse can become increasingly polarized and alarmist. This phenomenon is part of a larger trend known as hybrid wars, where political strategies blend real-world conflicts with ideological battles. Migrants, often portrayed as threats, become symbols in these narratives. Similar tactics have been employed during past crises, including the pandemic and climate change discussions. These approaches rely heavily on disinformation, moral panic, and prejudice against those perceived as different. The consequences of such strategies extend beyond politics. They affect everyday life and societal cohesion. During the pandemic, countries like Croatia faced severe challenges despite effective containment measures. Climate-related disasters have also led to increased tensions, particularly in regions experiencing extreme weather conditions. Antimigrant policies, when taken to extremes, often result in discrimination against individuals based on race or ethnicity. Political figures like Miletić continue to use inflammatory language to rally support. He recently warned against the presence of "Islamabad in Croatia," a reference that underscores the growing influence of xenophobic rhetoric. Such statements are difficult to fully define, yet they evoke historical parallels that suggest dangerous precedents. As the situation in Ceuta continues to unfold, the impact of these political strategies will likely persist. The interplay between real-world events and political narratives illustrates the complex dynamics at play. The long-term effects remain uncertain, but one thing is clear: the cost of such rhetoric is measured in lives and social trust.