Over 110,000 March in London Against Immigration Policies

More than 110,000 demonstrators marched through London on March 30, 2024, protesting against immigration policies in what has been described as one of the largest right-wing demonstrations in the United Kingdom’s recent history. The event, dubbed the “Unite the Kingdom” march, saw significant clashes between protesters and police, resulting in injuries to at least 26 officers.

The violence erupted as police worked to separate the marchers from approximately 5,000 counter-demonstrators gathered at White Hall in central London. A heavy police presence, comprising over 1,000 officers including 500 from other UK forces, was deployed to maintain order. According to the BBC, authorities arrested at least nine individuals during the protests for various offenses. Officers faced “significant aggression,” including being struck by projectiles like bottles and poles.

Tommy Robinson’s Role in Organizing the March

The march was organized by Tommy Robinson, the controversial anti-immigrant activist whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. At 41 years old, Robinson has established a prominent, albeit contentious, presence in British politics. He has openly expressed his anger towards Islam and immigration, as well as his discontent with the media and police treatment of him.

Robinson has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for assault, mortgage fraud, and multiple instances of contempt of court. In 2018, he was imprisoned for live-streaming outside a trial, and he received an 18-month sentence in 2024 for breaching a High Court order that prohibited him from repeating defamatory statements about a Syrian refugee. A judge characterized his actions as a “deliberate and flagrant breach” of court orders, noting a lack of remorse on Robinson’s part.

The English Defence League and Its Legacy

Robinson founded the English Defence League (EDL) in 2009, a street movement that often sparked confrontations. Despite stepping down as leader in 2013 due to concerns over rising extremism, he has continued to be an influential figure in anti-immigrant circles. The EDL quickly became synonymous with violent clashes and associations with football hooliganism, further amplifying Robinson’s notoriety.

The Metropolitan Police’s assessment of the march highlighted the “unacceptable violence” encountered by officers, with some sustaining severe injuries, including broken teeth and a suspected broken nose. The escalating tensions reflect the deep divisions within British society regarding immigration and national identity.

As the protests unfolded, it was clear that the issue of immigration remains a highly contentious topic in the UK. The significant turnout at the march indicates a mobilization of support for Robinson’s anti-immigration stance, while the presence of counter-demonstrators illustrates the opposing views held by many in society.

The events of March 30 serve as a reminder of the complexities surrounding immigration debates in the UK and the potential for civil unrest as differing ideologies clash in public spaces.