As witnessed in the USA, Europe, particularly the UK, is now seeing a surge in anti-immigration sentiment. On September 13, a powerful demonstration unfolded in London as nearly 100,000 people took to the streets demanding the expulsion of illegal immigrants. Organized under the banner 'Unite the Kingdom,' the rally concluded near the iconic Parliament building in the Whitehall area. Orchestrated by the controversial right-wing and nationalist leader Tommy Robinson, recently released from prison, this event underscores an increasingly vociferous call to protect British culture and sovereignty.
The streets of London echoed with patriotic chants, as demonstrators waved British and European flags alongside the St. George's Cross, clamoring for their rights with slogans like "We want our country back." Their demands were clear: government action to halt illegal immigration, restore freedom of expression, and defend British heritage.
Robinson labeled the gathering as a showcase for "free speech and the defense of British heritage and culture." Attendees passionately proclaimed, "We want our country back" and "We want our free speech back," and their banners bore stern warnings such as "Stop the boats" and "Send them out." One participant expressed, "We want our country back… we want our freedom of voice… it's time to end illegal immigration."
What Role Did Tommy Robinson Play and What Are His Objectives?
Known as Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, Tommy Robinson was the chief organizer of the 'Unite the Kingdom' rally. Regarded as a prominent right-wing nationalist in the UK, he founded the now-banned English Defence League, infamous for its violent strategies. Addressing his supporters, Robinson declared, "Today is a spark of cultural revolution in Great Britain, it's our chance." His critique was that immigrants have more rights than local communities, which he deemed unjust for the British public.
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Robinson's rhetoric amplified at the rally also included a platform selling his manifesto: 'Free Speech, Real Democracy, Peaceful Disobedience.'
The 42-year-old Robinson was released from jail earlier this year, sentenced for defying a court order not to repeat defamatory claims about a Syrian refugee.
Elon Musk Participates via Video Link
In an unexpected twist, American tech mogul Elon Musk took part virtually, addressing attendees with a call to dissolve the British Parliament and reform the government. Musk emphasized the urgency, claiming that despite the nation's beauty, "Britain is gradually being torn apart by a massive wave of migration."
Source: aajtak
Musk’s participation spotlighted the MAGA movement's growing influence in the UK, drawing contrasts with the American conservative leader Charlie Kirk's assassination.
Photographs and social media posts revealed attendees sporting MAGA hats, indicating an international bond between right-wing movements in the UK and the US. Experts anticipate heightened collaboration sparked by shared ideologies and objectives.
Similarly, migration becomes a hot-button issue in the US as political polarization intensifies under Trump's presence, with emerging MAGA-supporting groups against immigrants. This rally came in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's assassination, featuring prominent speakers like former Trump strategist Steve Bannon and members of Germany's AfD party.
'Stand Up For Racism' Protest
In opposition to Robinson’s rally, 'Stand Up to Racism' mobilized a counter-rally with approximately 5,000 participants. Their slogans, such as "Refugees Welcome," "Smash the Far-Right," and "Stand Up, Fight Back," advocated empathy over aggression.
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Diane Abbott, the UK's first black female MP, addressed the crowd emphasizing solidarity with refugees and condemning Robinson's purported lies.
Source: aajtak
Police Preparedness & Clashes
The Metropolitan Police dispatched 1,600 officers across London to maintain peace. Initially, the rallies remained calm, but tensions flared as afternoon progressed, with minor groups attempting to breach barriers and police targeted with bottles. Reports indicated 26 officers injured, with four sustaining serious injuries. Furthermore, 25 individuals were arrested for hate crimes and assault as violent outbursts occurred despite some exercising their legal right to protest.
Social-Political Context
This event marks a noteworthy moment in a vast right-wing surge across Europe and the US, characterized by growing nationalist and anti-immigration sentiments. This trend echoes across several European countries with anti-immigration demonstrations gaining traction. For instance, in July 2025, Poland’s right-wing Konfederacja party led nationwide protests to "Stop Uncontrolled Immigration." Similar events were recorded in Northern Ireland and the Netherlands.
Migration has emerged as a central political issue in the UK, with recent surveys indicating increased support for parties like Reform UK. Experts forecast potential rises in international right-wing solidarity and advisories for political caution as this resonates across governmental debates. Will these rallies imprint their echoes in Parliament?
