Intensified confrontations and detentions during immigration demonstrations in the United Kingdom
In recent weeks, Britain has witnessed a series of anti-immigration protests, primarily organised by the far-right group "Britain First." One of the most notable events took place in central Manchester on a Saturday in early August 2025. This demonstration, which called for the return of immigrants, attracted counter-protesters and led to clashes between the two sides, necessitating police intervention and resulting in several arrests.
Similar protests and violent confrontations have also occurred in other locations, such as central London, particularly outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in the Barbican area. The clash in Manchester was initially brief, occurring at the start of the protest, but was swiftly separated by the police.
The protests reflect a significant strain in public sentiment among some groups who perceive immigration as competing with native citizens for housing and resources. Brendan O’Reilly, a 66-year-old protester, expressed a desire for immigrants to be sent back and for the immigration to be stopped. However, counter-protesters criticize the anti-immigration rhetoric as racially motivated, suggesting the focus is disproportionately on people of brown skin and opposing the spread of hate on the streets.
Judy, a 60-year-old counter-protester and retired nurse, was present to prevent hate from appearing on the streets of Manchester. She, like many others, opposes the spread of hate and the violence that accompanies these protests.
These anti-immigration protests and Britain First's activities have heightened tensions and sporadic violence in affected communities, contributing to polarized public sentiments and prompting police to enforce strict measures to maintain order. Incidents in northeast London’s Epping neighborhood and other flashpoints around the UK underscore the growing unrest and divisiveness surrounding immigration issues.
It is important to note that Britain First is part of a broader far-right network in the UK, with documented ties to extremist groups also active across borders, including Ireland. This illustrates a cross-border dynamic in anti-migrant mobilization encompassing far-right ideological alliances beyond Britain.
In summary, the anti-immigration protests organised by Britain First in 2025 have escalated social tensions, triggered clashes with anti-racism groups, spurred police crackdowns, and reflect a broader trend of far-right mobilization with significant impact on public discourse and community safety in Britain.
[1] BBC News. (2025, August 5). Anti-immigration protests lead to arrests in Manchester. BBC. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-58312316
[2] The Guardian. (2025, August 6). London protests: Police arrest several as anti-immigrant march clashes with counter-demonstrators. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/aug/06/london-protests-police-arrest-several-as-anti-immigrant-march-clashes-with-counter-demonstrators
[3] Sky News. (2025, August 7). Anti-immigrant protests: What we know so far. Sky News. https://news.sky.com/story/anti-immigrant-protests-what-we-know-so-far-12524608
[4] Open Democracy. (2025, August 10). The far-right's transnational network: How Britain First fits into a broader European picture. Open Democracy. https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/uk/far-rights-transnational-network-how-britain-first-fits-into-broader-european-picture/
- The escalating anti-immigration protests, such as the ones led by Britain First, are not only a matter of general news but have also become a significant topic in British politics, with concerns raised about the potential for increased violence and the impact on community relations.
- As the instances of crime and injustice related to the anti-immigration protests continue to rise, with clashes between protesters and counter-protesters occurring in cities like Manchester and London, there are growing calls for stricter laws and policies to address these issues and maintain peace and order.
