Refugee Effigy Burned in Northern Ireland Prompts Political Backlash

A model boat carrying effigies of refugees in life jackets was set ablaze atop a towering bonfire in the loyalist town of Moygashel, Northern Ireland, on Thursday night, prompting widespread condemnation from political leaders and an active police investigation into a potential hate crime.

A loyalist bonfire burns after being set alight, featuring a model effigy of a boat containing mannequins portrayed as migrants in lifejackets, with a sign reading “Stop the Boats”, during annual bonfire events marking the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, in Moygashel, Northern Ireland, July 10, 2025. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne

The incident occurred just weeks after homes belonging to migrants were attacked in nearby areas, and comes during an annual period marked by sectarian tensions and cultural parades.

Controversial Bonfire Marks Annual Commemoration

The effigies were part of a controversial bonfire erected ahead of July 12 celebrations, which commemorate the 1690 Battle of the Boyne—an event celebrated largely by Protestant loyalist communities as a symbol of British identity.

Atop the massive structure of more than 50 stacked wooden pallets, eight mannequins dressed as migrants in life jackets were placed in a makeshift boat, alongside an Irish flag. Banners affixed to the bonfire read “Stop the Boats” and “Veterans Before Refugees.”

As night fell, a large crowd gathered to watch the bonfire burn, many filming the spectacle with their phones. A pipe band performed and fireworks were set off before the fire was lit.

Politicians Condemn the Display as Hateful

The effigy display was met with swift condemnation from across Northern Ireland’s political spectrum. Colm Gildernew, a regional assembly member from the Irish nationalist Sinn Féin party, described the bonfire as “deplorable” and “a clear incitement to hatred.”

Mike Nesbitt, leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and Northern Ireland’s health minister, also spoke out against the display. He had previously joined Gildernew and others in calling for the removal of the effigies before the bonfire was set alight.

Police Investigating Incident as Hate Crime

Authorities confirmed they are treating the bonfire display as a potential hate incident and are conducting an investigation. The Police Service of Northern Ireland has dealt with similar tensions in recent weeks, including violent riots in Ballymena, some 65 kilometers northeast of Moygashel. There, masked individuals attacked police and set cars and homes on fire.