Study reveals indirect mobilisation by Tommy Robinson

13 April 2026

New research led by Darja Wischerath reveals how online influencers can mobilise support and legitimise harmful behaviour without issuing direct calls to action. Analysing more than 230 posts from Tommy Robinson’s Telegram channel during the 2024 UK riots, researchers found no explicit instructions to engage in violence. Instead, Robinson used emotional narratives, conspiracy claims, and framing tactics to heighten anger, fear and mistrust, creating a context in which unrest appeared justified.

Published in the British Journal of Social Psychology, the study introduces the concept of ‘indirect mobilisation,’ where influencers shape perceptions and behaviour through storytelling rather than commands. Researchers warn that the cumulative effect of such content, often ‘lawful but awful’, can normalise extreme responses. The findings highlight growing challenges for regulators and platforms in balancing free expression with public safety. Read more here.(Image credit: CREST)