Lauren Southern
Lauren Southern (born June 16, 1995) is a Canadian far-right political activist and internet personality known for her controversial views and conspiracy theories. She gained prominence as a YouTuber and has been a polarizing figure due to her involvement in various far-right activities and her connections with conspiracy theorists.
Southern has promoted the "Great Replacement" theory, a conspiracy theory suggesting that a global elite is orchestrating the demographic replacement of white Europeans through mass migration. Her advocacy for this theory was partly highlighted in her 2017 documentary Farmlands, where she examined the alleged targeting of white farmers in South Africa, a claim that has been criticized for lacking substantial evidence.
Southern has courted controversy for her participation in and promotion of the European identitarian movement, including her involvement in a 2017 Defend Europe mission that aimed to disrupt the operations of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea. This mission was widely criticized by human rights organizations as an attempt to hinder lifesaving efforts.
Additionally, Southern has appeared on Infowars, a media platform created by Alex Jones, who is known for spreading conspiracy theories. Her appearances have further cemented her association with the far-right and conspiracy theorist circles.
Southern announced a hiatus from political activism in 2019, citing the toxic nature of the political discourse and a desire to pursue other personal and professional goals. However, she returned to public life in 2020, continuing to express her views through various media platforms.
Southern remains a contentious figure, with her work often described as amplifying divisive narratives and misinformation, contributing to broader discussions about the impact of internet personalities on political extremism.