By Matt Underwood Over 100,000 anti-immigration protesters march in London, a staggering number that clearly indicates a significant level of concern and frustration within the UK population. It’s easy to see this as a singular event, but it’s crucial to understand the complex web of factors contributing to this demonstration, as it appears that the number of protestors is more than initially estimated, possibly reaching the heights of 3 million.
The question of illegal migration, particularly the methods used to enter the UK, like secret boat trips from France, is a central talking point. This highlights anxieties about border control and the perceived strain on resources. The UK and France have made deals to work together on these issues, but from the perspective of some, France might not have much incentive to help, as it possibly benefits from the situation.
It’s important to acknowledge that while immigration is a factor, the current situation is very much a consequence of previous policies. The number of immigrants entering the UK, which is over 12 million in the last 20 years, has led to record profits for some corporations. The sentiment shared by some is that these protests are misdirected, that anger should be aimed at wealthy elites who benefit from the current state of affairs.
The march itself seems to have been a very divisive event, with strong opinions on both sides. There is disappointment in the fact that such a large protest was led by someone with highly controversial views, which immediately colours the perception of the entire movement. Others express disgust at the behaviour of some protesters, including incidents of violence and the use of hateful language. Many feel ashamed of this kind of public display.
The motivations for the protests are varied. Many believe that immigration is exceeding the housing supply and is therefore causing the rise in fringe parties, and that this is a problem that is impacting the housing supply and it is not the fault of the immigrants. Some of the people at these protests are also of the view that corporations are making record profits while the cost of living and food prices are still rising month by month. It is viewed by some as hypocrisy, from a country that built its wealth on slavery and colonialism, to now be worried about immigration.
The debate extends beyond the immediate issue of immigration, touching on broader themes of social inequality, corporate greed, and the role of the government. The irony of protesting against immigration from countries that were once colonized by the UK is also not lost on many. The history of the UK, built on the backs of those from other nations, is being contrasted with the current anxieties about immigration.
The presence of people from the far right, and the association with extremism and historical figures, is a recurring theme. It is very clear from the comments that the far right is on a rampage, it’s a concern for many. The behaviour of some protesters is seen as a reflection of the country’s broader issues, with police being assaulted, and arrests being made. There is also the question of hypocrisy, and the lack of understanding about the historical context, as well as voting for Brexit.
The question of violence, often attributed to both sides of the political spectrum, appears to be a real concern, the perception that the left is violent. There are also discussions about who is to blame, and how people can find common ground. It is very clear that the protests are a complex issue, with deep-rooted causes. The protests have divided the country, and this division is the key message.
It appears that the most common method is overstaying a visa, and that boat trips are a popular method of entry. The fact remains that many are sympathetic to the immigrants who are literally in France.