French authorities ban British far-right activists from gathering at weekend

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Diane TaylorJanuary 23, 2026 at 07:19 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

French authorities have banned British far-right activists from gathering in northern France this weekend to prevent a "stop the boats" protest against asylum seekers. The ban, effective from Friday evening to Monday morning, targets activists involved in "Operation Overlord," organized by anti-migrant groups like Raise the Colours. The prefecture in Nord and Pas-de-Calais issued the order, citing concerns about intimidation of migrants and humanitarian organizations, and the risk of public disorder due to the activists' xenophobic ideology. The ban prohibits gatherings in districts including Dunkirk, Calais, and Lille. Authorities stated the measure aims to protect migrants and guarantee public safety.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Calais 30% Dunkirk 30% Bertrand Gaume 40% François-Xavier Lauch 40% Nord ×250% Pas-de-Calais ×250% Daniel Thomas 60% Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (Tommy Robinson) 60% Operation Overlord ×370% UK ×270% Raise the Colours ×580% France ×290%

Keywords

far-right activists 100% asylum seekers 80% anti-migrant 70% public order 60% french authorities 60% operation overlord 50% raise the colours 50% channel crossing 40%