Spread of online misinformation, January 2025

“We are concerned by the circulation of misinformation by individuals in positions of influence. We urge everyone to seek the facts before sharing or endorsing inaccurate content, including fake images, doctored videos, and misleading claims. Spreading such material can escalate threats toward our organisation and staff, and seek to divide communities.

In 2023, a video from a school project welcoming refugees was released. It was never intended as an advert to encourage migration and was shared to show the positivity of pupils.

The Welsh Refugee Council would like to clarify that we did not create or commission the video currently being circulated. While we were not involved in its production, we reshared the post as a positive example of young people championing messages of compassion and inclusion. The video was subsequently taken down due to it being used out of context and the hostile backlash that followed.

We take any false or defamatory statements seriously and are working closely with the Police and relevant authorities to address this matter.

The Welsh Refugee Council remains unwavering in our mission to support sanctuary seekers and refugees, fostering understanding and promoting inclusion. We are deeply grateful to the individuals and communities who continue to support our work and stand with us in building a more inclusive society.”

Andrea Cleaver – CEO Welsh Refugee Council

Visit the Welsh Government fact checking resource for more information.