Elon Musk campaigns for the release of far-right activist in the UK

Elon Musk, billionaire and special advisor to Donald Trump, continues to intensify his influence on the global far-right political scene. After supporting the former president of the United States in his re-election campaign and declaring support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, Musk is now causing controversy in the United Kingdom by starting a campaign in defense of Tommy Robinson, an activist for far right currently arrested.

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is serving an 18-month sentence for contempt of court. He violated an injunction by repeating defamatory allegations against Jamal Hijazi, a Syrian refugee student, in a documentary widely circulated on platform X (formerly Twitter). The case began in 2018, when Robinson posted videos accusing Hijazi of violent behavior and threats, allegations refuted by the courts.

Musk’s campaign

Musk used his X account to call for Robinson’s release, saying he is in prison “for telling the truth.” In another post, the businessman questioned why Robinson was “in solitary confinement”. The documentary that led to the conviction, titled Silencedwas retweeted by Musk and has already accumulated more than 146 million views.

Musk’s initiative comes at a delicate time in the United Kingdom, where recent discussions about child grooming gangs have reignited debates about immigration and criminal justice policies. Musk has publicly criticized the Labor government led by Keir Starmer, accusing it of inaction on child sexual abuse and directing attacks at Home Secretary Jess Phillips.

Robinson’s history and repercussions

Robinson is a central figure of the British far right, having founded the Islamophobic group English Defense League in 2009. His career includes several arrests for assault, fraud and contempt of court. In 2019, he was convicted of exposing details of a trial involving a sexual exploitation gang, damaging the legal process.

Musk’s posts generated mixed reactions. While conservative leaders and right-wing outlets amplified his messages, members of the Labor Party condemned his stance. “Musk’s support for figures like Tommy Robinson and far-right parties in Europe is an attack on democracy and peaceful coexistence,” declared Labor MP Stella Creasy.

Expansion of ultra-right discourse in Europe

In addition to his actions in the United Kingdom, Musk has also defended right-wing figures and parties in other European countries. He recently wrote an opinion piece in support of the AfD in Germany and praised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. In the United Kingdom, Musk expressed support for the Reform UK party, founded by Nigel Farage, known for its anti-immigration and eurosceptic rhetoric.

The connection between Musk and Farage strengthened in late 2024, when they both met at Donald Trump’s resort in Mar-a-Lago, Florida. Farage, once leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP), resigned in 2018 after his successor appointed Robinson as an official adviser.

Impacts on international politics

Musk’s actions are seen as part of a strategy to promote right-wing and far-right ideas globally, with significant implications for Western democracies. “He has become a problem not only for democracy, but also for the reputation of those who support him”, highlighted parliamentarian Stella Creasy.

As Musk positions himself as an influential figure in global politics, his actions raise questions about the role of social media and great wealth in political and social balance.