England's extreme patriots: Inside the growing nationalist movement

FRANCE24
Issued on: 02/01/2026 - 11:46

Across England, a new wave of nationalist activism is reshaping the political landscape. From demonstrations outside asylum-seeker hotels to mass rallies drawing tens of thousands in London, groups draped in Union Jacks and St George's Cross flags are making their presence felt. FRANCE 24's Clovis Casali and Claire Paccalin report.


They say they're defending their identity and Christian values against what they see as unchecked immigration and cultural erosion. But these English nationalists' methods – confrontational street protests, social media campaigns, and increasingly mainstream political momentum – are causing divisions and raising questions about who gets to define patriotism.

Local residents, business owners and even some who would proudly display the flag themselves, say the groups are spreading hate and weaponising national symbols.

This investigation takes you inside the movement, from nighttime flag operations in a Birmingham suburb to baptisms in a canal preached as acts of national revival, revealing a country grappling with its identity in an age of anxiety.

BY:
Clovis CASALI

Claire PACCALIN