By-election candidates faced 'racist, xenophobic and misogynistic' abuse online

Harassment and disinformation were circulated across social media platforms including X, Facebook, and YouTube in the lead-up to polling in the Galway West and Dublin Central by-elections

Helen Ogbu (left) on the canvas trail in the Claddagh, Galway with Sabina Higgins (right) earlier this month. The Hope and Courage Collective monitor of the by-elections found that Ms Ogbu experienced 'sustained racist and xenophobic abuse'. Photo: Ray Ryan

At least 58 instances of hate, harassment, and disinformation targeting by-election candidates were circulated across social media platforms including X, Facebook, and YouTube in the four weeks leading up to polling day in the Galway West and Dublin Central by-elections.

The Hope and Courage Collective monitor of the by-elections found that Labour's Helen Ogbu experienced "sustained racist and xenophobic abuse", while Sinn Féin's Janice Boylan faced "misogynistic attacks" online.