PARIS – In an unprecedented move to protect national security and public order, the French Ministry of the Interior has issued categorical territorial bans against 10 British nationals linked to far-right vigilante activities. Announced on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the decree prevents these individuals—members of the UK-based group “Raise the Colours”—from entering or residing in France following allegations of systematic property destruction along the northern coastline.
The intervention marks a sharp escalation in French policy toward foreign political activists, as Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez declared that “violent or hate-inciting actions” have no place within the Republic’s borders.
The “Raise the Colours” Sabotage Campaign
The ban follows a series of incidents in the Nord and Pas-de-Calais regions, where activists were reportedly “hunting” for inflatable vessels used by human smugglers. According to French authorities, the group’s operations involved:
- Vandalism of Vessels: Militants were filmed puncturing and destroying small boats staged on French beaches, intended for Channel crossings.
- Propaganda Livestreams: Activists used social media to broadcast their incursions, calling on the British public to join a “grassroots” effort to physically stop migration.
- Harassment of NGOs: Reports from monitoring groups, including Hope Not Hate, allege that the team has spent months harassing both migrants and humanitarian aid workers in Calais and Dunkirk.
In a statement, “Raise the Colours” defended its actions as a “lawful civic movement” aimed at holding governments accountable for failed border policies. However, the French government countered that these actions constitute “serious disturbances to public order” and a “manifestly violent” breach of legal frameworks.
Legal and Diplomatic Fallout
The exclusion orders were issued under Articles L214-1 and L214-2 of the French Foreigners Code, which allows for fast-track expulsions of individuals whose behavior is deemed racist, xenophobic, or violent. The names of the 10 individuals have not been publicly released, but French authorities confirmed that UK officials were notified through the Kent Police liaison office.
This move arrives at a moment of intense political friction. In 2025, over 41,000 people crossed the English Channel in small boats—the second-highest figure on record. While the UK government has implemented stricter citizenship requirements and removal measures, the rise of vigilante groups like “Raise the Colours” suggests a growing impatience among the British far-right that is now spilling across international borders.
Border Logistics and Economic Impact
The ban has immediate implications for cross-Channel movement. Ferry operators at Calais and Dunkirk have been warned of potential “tit-for-tat” protests, and business travelers may face more stringent ID checks this week.
Impact Category | Status | Note |
| Security Status | Reinforced | Increased police presence at embarkation zones. |
| Border Checks | Stricter | Enhanced questioning for UK nationals at northern ports. |
| Diplomacy | Tense | Ongoing “Brexit Reset” talks now include the “Farage Clause” regarding border security. |
Calais 7 Port of Calais Seaways Picture by Ad Meskens
