Right-wing, anti-immigrant protesters and opposing anti-racism demonstrators gathered in large numbers on Saturday, holding peaceful rallies as police heightened their presence to prevent potential clashes between the groups.
The “Unite the Kingdom” rally, led by anti-immigrant activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson, drew thousands waving English and British flags near parliament. Meanwhile, a counter-protest nearby saw anti-racism campaigners and trade unionists march under banners reading “Refugees Welcome” and “Smash the Far Right.”
Police from across the UK were deployed to manage the events, reporting only a few arrests. The peaceful protests come after recent riots across Britain sparked by misinformation regarding a murder case, which falsely identified a Muslim migrant as the suspect. The unrest saw attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers and mosques, leading to over 1,500 arrests.
Right-wing protesters describe their efforts as “patriotic,” voicing concerns about migration and Islam’s influence in the UK. However, critics argue that these movements include elements associated with racism, far-right ideology, and soccer hooliganism, sparking concern among lawmakers and activists alike.
