Three French activists from the far-right feminist group Collectif Némésis created a major controversy during Tommy Robinson’s “Unite The Kingdom” rally in central London on May 16, 2026. The women appeared on stage wearing full-face niqabs before dramatically removing and discarding them in front of thousands of cheering protesters.
The symbolic act was intended as a protest against what they called the “Islamisation of Europe” and the oppression of women under political Islam. After removing the veils, they revealed Western-style dresses and delivered a short speech criticizing mass immigration and its impact on women’s rights in Europe. The moment was recorded on video and quickly went viral on social media.
The incident took place at a large anti-immigration rally organized by British activist Tommy Robinson (Stephen Yaxley-Lennon). Tens of thousands of people attended the event, which also saw heavy police deployment.
The act has sparked intense debate. Muslim community leaders and anti-racism groups strongly condemned it as Islamophobic and insulting to Muslim women. On the other hand, supporters of the rally praised the activists for highlighting issues related to women’s freedom and integration.
This dramatic protest has further deepened discussions about immigration, cultural identity, and free speech in the United Kingdom.
