An anti-asylum protest in Glasgow was met by anti-racist groups, trades unions and other activists in the city centre.

Dubbed the ‘Glasgow Rises Unity Rally’, a protest was called outside Buchanan Galleries with podcaster Craig Houston among the organisers.

It was opposed by a rally organised by Stand Up to Racism Scotland, which included various community groups, activists and trades unions.

Those on the anti-asylum side were seen holding banners dedicated to the late American political activist Charlie Kirk, while the far-right group Patriotic Alternative were also pictured holding a banner.

Anti-asylum protestors display a banner in honour of Charlie Kirk(Image: Gordon Terris)

Far-right group Patriotic Alternative unveil a banner at an anti-asylum rally in Glasgow(Image: Gordon Terris)

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A Go Fund Me set up by the ‘Unity Rally’ raised more than £1,300, which organisers say will be used to pay for “paid entertainers, dancers, marketing, equipment, flags, banners, and travel”.

What appeared to be a larger crowd opposing their presence held placards saying “we’re no island of strangers” and chanted “refugees are welcome here”.

Anti-racist campaigners and anti-asylum protestors gather in Glasgow(Image: Gordon Terris)

Anti-asylum protestors in Glasgow(Image: Gordon Terris)

Pro and anti-migrant groups previously clashed in the city in July, when a march of 150 UKIP members was met with protests from hundreds of anti-racist demonstrators.

Led by leader Nick Tenconi, the “mass deportations tour” has also marched in London, Nottingham, and Liverpool.

Recent weeks have seen a spate of protests and counter-protests in Scotland, most notably at the Cladhan Hotel in Falkirk.

Anti-racist campaigners and anti-asylum protestors gather in Glasgow(Image: Gordon Terris)

Anti-racism campaigners oppose a rally in Glasgow(Image: Gordon Terris)

Anti-asylum protestors in front of Buchanan Galleries in Glasgow(Image: Gordon Terris)

The hotel is being used to house asylum seekers, with weekly demonstrations against their presence organised by a group called Save Our Future & Our Kids Futures.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We are aware of a planned protest due to take place on Buchanan Street in Glasgow on Saturday, 20 September 2025.

“A proportionate policing plan is in place to ensure public safety and minimise disruption.”