France has taken decisive action against a British far-right group, banning ten of its members from entering the country. The activists are accused of targeting and destroying small boats used by migrants attempting to cross the English Channel to reach the United Kingdom.
French Interior Ministry Announces Entry Ban
The French Interior Ministry confirmed the significant move on Wednesday, 14th January 2026. The ban, which was formally pronounced the previous day on Tuesday, prohibits the ten identified individuals from the group known as "Raise the Colours" from entering or remaining on French soil.
In an official statement, the ministry accused the group's militants of actively hunting for and sabotaging vessels used on the perilous migration route between France and the UK. The statement further alleged that the activists had engaged in "propaganda activities" along the northern French coast. This propaganda was reportedly aimed at a British audience, encouraging them to join the movement to stop migration.
Activists Targeted for Actions on French Soil
While the French authorities did not publicly name the ten British nationals, they were clear that each had been "identified as militants within the movement who carried out actions on French territory." This direct link to activities within France provided the legal basis for the entry bans.
The issue of small boat crossings has long been a source of tension between London and Paris, frequently straining diplomatic relations. Within the UK, it remains one of the most contentious and divisive political topics, dominating national debate.
Channel Crossings Remain a Pressing Issue
The French action comes against the backdrop of persistently high numbers of people attempting the dangerous Channel crossing. According to the latest UK Home Office figures, more than 41,000 people made the journey in small boats last year.
This marked an increase from the 2024 total but was lower than the record set in 2022, when over 45,000 individuals completed the crossing. The French ban represents a concrete step to address one facet of this complex and enduring challenge, targeting those taking vigilante action on its shores.
