Soap Writer Linked to Migration Advocacy

EastEnders has aired storylines with a pro-migrant focus since 2022, following the hiring of writer Ade Lamuye, who is also an advocate for "migration and racial justice." Lamuye's work includes developing narratives for characters like Kojo Asare, a Ghanaian migrant who was exploited and assaulted, and whose brother discovered their father was a murdered Ghanaian immigrant.

Lamuye's involvement extends to the advisory board of Comic Relief's "Power of Pop Fund," which has allocated nearly £5 million to organizations aiming to reframe migration debates through pop culture. She also facilitates Media Movers, a group that seeks to influence migration messaging in media. A BBC spokesperson stated the broadcaster maintains editorial control and engages with charities for research, while adhering to impartiality guidelines.

This situation echoes broader trends where narrative change organizations, some funded by National Lottery and Comic Relief, are actively shaping media content. Similar efforts have influenced other soap operas, like Coronation Street, and current affairs programs, with the aim of building social support for migration. One organization, Imix, was involved in arranging for small-boat migrants to appear on a BBC program.