Police Scotland is considering a crackdown on protests outside asylum accommodation, citing concerns that the human rights of residents and staff may be infringed by repeated demonstrations.
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell outlined in a report that specific attention will be given to the cumulative impact of protests at single locations, particularly those housing asylum seekers. The force is seeking guidance from legal and human rights advisors to determine if further enforcement action is warranted.
This potential shift in approach comes amid a significant rise in anti-migrant demonstrations. In 2025, Police Scotland responded to an average of six protests per day, totaling 2,190 demonstrations, a 19% increase from the previous year. A notable portion of these, 80% of 83 counter-protests so far in 2026, were in response to anti-immigration rallies.
The report also noted that many protests begin with legitimate intentions but can escalate to criminal behavior or the promotion of extremist ideologies, including racism, under the guise of community defense. Since August of the previous year, over half of the 144 anti-migrant protests have occurred at the Cladhan Hotel in Falkirk, which is housing asylum seekers.
One instance cited involved an Afghan asylum seeker who had stayed at the Cladhan Hotel and was later convicted of raping a minor in the town.
Former Police Scotland superintendent Martin Gallagher expressed criticism of the proposed crackdown, warning it could lead to violence and portray the police as taking sides. He suggested that understanding and mitigating the underlying issues driving public protest is crucial, rather than labeling concerned citizens.
Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Stephen Kerr stated that many communities feel unheard and that the right to peaceful protest must be protected. He urged Police Scotland to maintain a balance, allowing lawful protest while maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to intimidation and criminality.
In a separate but related concern, Police Scotland is also monitoring protests described as "silent vigils," where individuals gather in public spaces, often arranging themselves in military-style formations for wreath-laying ceremonies. While these have been peaceful, their significant community impact is being assessed.