On Saturday, London saw one of the largest right-wing demonstrations in recent memory as more than 110,000 people joined the “Unite the Kingdom” march through central London, organised by activist Tommy Robinson. What was billed as a protest focused on immigration, national identity, and free speech quickly turned volatile when clashes broke out between protesters and police. Meanwhile, a counter-demonstration by Stand Up to Racism drew roughly 5,000 participants, heightening tensions.
The March and its Organisers
Tommy Robinson, who has long been associated with far-right activism in the UK, called the rally a “Unite the Kingdom” event—framing it as both a statement on immigration and a plea for greater protections for free speech and “British values.” Attendees carried Union Jack and St. George’s flags, with some wearing MAGA hats, and others brought U.S. and Israeli flags—symbols that underscore the protest’s international resonance among anti-immigration and nationalist movements.
The police had approved the route, expecting a large turnout but reportedly did not anticipate the crowd swelling to the scale that it did. According to authorities, the march was too large to fit into Whitehall, and protests spilled beyond the originally designated route. Efforts by law enforcement to contain the crowd and prevent breaches of police lines sparked the first confrontations.
Clashes, Arrests and Injuries
Violence flared as protesters attempted to move off route and some tried to force through police lines. Projectiles—bottles, flares and other objects—were thrown. The Metropolitan Police report that at least 26 officers were injured, four of them seriously. Injuries included broken teeth, possible broken noses, head injuries, and even one officer suffering what was described as a prolapsed disc.
Arrests were made: around 25 people were detained; charges relate to violent disorder, assaulting police, and affray. Police also emphasised that while many protesters were exercising lawful rights, a minority engaged in behaviour considered unacceptable. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood pledged that those involved in criminal activity would be identified and prosecuted. Business Secretary Peter Kyle also echoed these sentiments, calling attacks on police “wholly unacceptable.”
Counter-Protest and Broader Reactions
The counter-protest by Stand Up to Racism was significantly smaller but vocal. Attendees held placards reading “Refugees Welcome” and “Smash the Far Right,” and used chants expressing solidarity with migrants and denouncing xenophobia. Some MPs, including Diane Abbott, participated and spoke out against what they described as hate speech, misinformation, and dangerous rhetoric.
National political leaders have responded with concern. Prime Minister Keir Starmer affirmed the right to peaceful protest but condemned the violence and the rhetoric used. He emphasised that national symbols, like flags, should unite rather than divide. Business Secretary Peter Kyle said that while free speech is a pillar of British democracy, it does not give licence to abuse or intimidation.
Elon Musk made a video appearance to address the rally, calling for changes in government and saying that people should “fight back or you die.” Such statements have been widely criticised as inflammatory, with many politicians across the spectrum condemning them. The Independent described Musk’s contribution as “disgusting and inappropriate.”
Implications and What Comes Next
The scale of the march reveals not only growing public concern about immigration but also a rise in nationalist sentiment that is increasingly visible. Analysts suggest that the protest tapped into discontent among voters who feel that government policies have failed to address immigration, housing, or economic issues.
There is concern that such large gatherings—especially when paired with violent episodes—could sharpen division across communities. Minority groups and migrant advocacy organisations fear that nationalist symbols and rhetoric may increase hostility, prejudice and social tension.
In response, the government is under pressure to clarify immigration policy and to address public anxiety without allowing extremist narratives to dominate. There may also be calls for stronger regulation of public speeches, social media influence, and protest organisers. Law enforcement also faces scrutiny for its preparedness, crowd control strategy, and whether authorities were too slow to act as violence escalated.
Voices from the Ground
Some participants insist they were there for free speech and felt ignored by mainstream politics. “This was about making our voices heard,” one marcher told reporters. Others, including families and community leaders, expressed alarm. One anti-racism campaigner said, “This is more than just immigration—this is about fear, division, and who gets to claim ownership of British identity.”
For the officers offering security, the event has left a mark. Having to respond to unexpected violence has renewed debate around police resourcing, protection, mental health support and protocols. The injury list is serious, and police unions are likely to press the government for better protections and deterrents for those who assault public servants.
