Tens of thousands of people gathered in central London on Saturday for a large anti-immigration rally led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, as tensions over migration and national identity continue to grow in the United Kingdom.
The demonstration, branded by organizers as a “patriotic” march, called for tighter immigration controls and greater political engagement from supporters. Robinson urged attendees to “get involved” in politics, warning that failing to act could result in the country being “lost” in the future.
Police said the rally drew a large turnout, with estimates reaching into the tens of thousands. A significant security operation was deployed across central London, with around 4,000 officers assigned due to multiple events taking place at the same time, including a counter-protest and a major sporting event.
Authorities reported dozens of arrests linked to public order offences, while noting that the majority of the demonstrations remained largely peaceful. However, several officers were assaulted, and hate crime-related incidents were also recorded.
The protest came amid growing political debate in the UK over immigration, particularly small boat crossings across the English Channel. The issue has become a major point of tension in national politics, influencing both government policy and public discourse.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the rally’s messaging, describing it as divisive and harmful. In response to concerns about extremist involvement, authorities also barred several foreign individuals linked to far-right activism from entering the country ahead of the event.
Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has become a prominent figure in UK anti-immigration activism in recent years and has a history of criminal convictions. His speeches often focus on immigration, cultural identity, and free speech debates.
Counter-protests also took place in London on the same day, highlighting the deep divisions in public opinion over migration policy and national identity.