By: Engineer Bakht Said Yousafzai
Last week Saturday, the streets of London witnessed a scene that created an atmosphere of concern not only in the capital but across the entire country. The controversial far-right figure Tommy Robinson led the “Unite the Kingdom” march, which was presented under the banner of protecting national values, British identity, and freedom of expression. Yet, the hidden reality behind it was something else entirely. The demonstration was in fact a display of collective power against immigrants, Muslims, and the UK’s immigration policies—further deepening the divisions already present in society.
An estimated 110,000 people participated in the march, a number that itself proves how rapidly anti-immigration and Islamophobic sentiments are taking root in Britain. The chants of the protesters—“Stop the boats” and “Send them home”—were not just objections to policy but direct attempts to target a specific community. These chants were a message to the thousands of Muslims and refugees who have long been part of Britain, contributing to its economy, paying taxes, and supporting British society with their hard work. Yet, they are still viewed as “outsiders” and a “burden.”
This situation is not limited to the march itself; it reflects the growing trend of Islamophobia and anti-immigration rhetoric in Britain. Since Brexit, this trend has become more pronounced, with immigration framed as a national crisis. Daily debates in the media portray refugees as a problem, while political parties, in pursuit of votes, further fuel this narrative. Figures like Tommy Robinson exploit this environment, channeling public anger in a particular direction.
Although police imposed strict security measures during the march and tried to prevent large-scale violence, clashes eventually broke out. Protesters attempted to break police lines, and several arrests were made. These scenes reflect a society breaking apart internally. A pressing question now faces the British people: will they allow such groups to shape the nation’s political and social direction?
Running parallel to Robinson’s march was a smaller but peaceful counter-protest organized under the banner “Stand Up To Racism.” Though fewer in number, their presence was proof that a significant portion of Britain still stands against hatred and racism. The simultaneous presence of these two contrasting demonstrations on the same London streets highlights the social division that defines Britain today.
Tommy Robinson’s role deserves particular attention. He is the founder of the extremist English Defence League, a group with a record of violence, hate, and campaigns against minorities. The fact that hundreds of thousands now rally around such a figure illustrates that extremism is no longer confined to a fringe but is finding a place in the mainstream. This raises fears that future gatherings could become larger and more violent.
The international impact of the march was also felt. Human rights organizations and global observers have expressed alarm at the event. The United Nations and the European Union have already warned that the rise of Islamophobia and racism in Western democracies poses not only local dangers but also global challenges to peace, tolerance, and pluralism.
The question now is: what should Britain’s leadership do in this situation? First and foremost, political leaders must adopt a clear and courageous stance. Promoting hate under the guise of free speech is unacceptable. If political parties respond with complacency or opportunism, the result will be deeper societal divisions and severe insecurity among minorities. The media must also take responsibility to ensure it does not normalize hate-filled narratives. Instead, it should highlight efforts that promote diversity, inclusivity, and tolerance.
Educational institutions and civil society can also play a crucial role. Children and young people must be taught that disagreement and hate speech are worlds apart. Tolerance and harmony need to be embedded in curricula and public discourse—it is the greatest need of our time.
London’s events last week deliver a stark lesson: if hate is not stopped in time, it will not remain just a problem for Muslims or refugees. It will eventually engulf the whole of British society. History shows us that when a community is singled out, its poison ultimately spreads to everyone. Britain’s future stands at a crossroads. One path leads to hate and division, ending in destruction. The other path leads to peace, tolerance, and pluralism, building Britain into a strong and united society.
The choice of which path to follow now lies in the hands of the British people and their leadership.
engr.bakht@gmail.com)
(Bradford, England)
