In recent months, the UK has seen a new and highly visible campaign spreading across towns and cities. Known as Operation Raise the Colours, or informally as the UK raising colors movement, it involves the widespread display of English and British flags in public places.
What is Operation Raise the Colours?
Operation Raise the Colours is a grassroots movement that began in August 2025. The idea is simple: people put up national flags such as the St George’s Cross (England) or the Union Jack (United Kingdom) on lampposts, bridges, roundabouts, and other public spaces.
The movement first gained attention in Birmingham and East London, where large numbers of flags suddenly appeared overnight. Within weeks, the campaign spread to Manchester, Bradford, Newcastle, Norwich, York, and other cities. Online groups and social media accounts amplified the trend, encouraging others to take part.
The campaigners argue that the UK should be proud of its national symbols, and that people have the right to display them openly.
Why is UK raising colors now?
Political and social tension around immigration. The rise of the “Raise the Colours” display coincides with growing anxiety and debate over migration policy in the UK. Flags are being raised in places with recent anti-immigration protests.
Supporters also often argue that other communities can fly their own flags (for example, flags from countries of origin) without interference, while councils sometimes remove English or Union flags. They believe the UK raising colors campaign challenges this imbalance.
However, the movement faces backlash for several reasons. Some say it is being promoted by far-right groups, raising fears it could be used for extremist purposes.
How have authorities responded?
Local councils and police forces have faced a difficult balancing act. On one hand, they must uphold freedom of expression. On the other, they are responsible for public order and safety.
Some councils have removed flags if they were placed illegally or posed risks, such as blocking road signs.
Council staff have reported receiving abuse when taking flags down, showing how tense the issue has become.
Politicians have offered mixed responses. Some defend the campaign as a harmless expression of patriotism, while others view it as a sign of growing division.
The national government has not taken an official stance yet.
What happens next?
It is unclear how long Operation Raise the Colours will continue, but for now, the flags remain highly visible in many towns. Some believe the campaign will grow stronger if tensions over immigration and identity increase. Others expect it will fade once authorities enforce rules on unauthorised displays.
The UK raising colors movement could influence immigration policy by keeping migration at the centre of political debate. Its visibility increases public pressure on local and national politicians to adopt tougher stances, such as stricter border controls or reduced asylum intake.
