Rise in Protests Linked to Gaza Conflict and Immigration Concerns
The ongoing conflict in Gaza and heightened concerns regarding immigration have led to a significant increase in protests requiring police presence across Scotland. In the previous year, the number of demonstrations rose by 50%, and Police Scotland has already attended 530 protests so far this year.
A recent Scottish Police Authority (SPA) board meeting revealed that among these protests, 40% were pro-Palestinian, 20% were anti-immigration, and 10% were associated with the war in Iran.
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell commented on the situation, noting the challenges posed by these events.
"We've seen a considerable change in the protest landscape over the last 12 months. We see the direct impact of international events, but also domestic events and politics. We're acutely aware that our response can impact upon community cohesion."
To address the complexities of demonstrations, particularly those outside hotels housing asylum seekers, a national coordination structure has been established. This ensures a "consistent style and tone" in the police response across Scotland.
Waddell further explained:
"Across Scotland our response is largely community based, so it's led by on almost every occasion local command teams with local officers, supported by national resource. Now there will be exceptions to that depending on the intelligence picture or the threat, risk and harm, but that's the start and default position for us."
Liaison officers are actively engaging with protest organisers, and effective practices have been developed nationwide to incorporate community feedback. Waddell acknowledged the difficulties involved:
"We do review where we're at though, because these are difficult and at times challenging protests to do. When you look at the volume, it's difficult to get it right on every occasion."
Edinburgh Attacks and Subsequent Protests
Recent demonstrations have included an anti-immigration rally following violent incidents in Wester Hailes, Edinburgh. Mustafa Kokoneh appeared in court charged with attempting to murder a shop customer and a council worker, as well as assaulting two shop employees.
Following this incident, dozens of police officers intervened when demonstrators confronted a counter-protest that had assembled nearby.
Protests have also occurred outside hotels accommodating asylum seekers in Falkirk and Perth.
The conflict in Gaza and the UK government's decision to ban Palestine Action have additionally prompted demonstrations across Scotland.
Financial Impact and Policing Resources
Policing these protests incurs additional costs for Police Scotland. The force aims to reduce its overtime expenses by 20% in the upcoming financial year.
The SPA board approved a budget for 2026/27 described as "challenging but manageable," incorporating £26 million in savings while maintaining officer numbers at 16,500.
David Malcolm, Unison branch secretary representing civilian staff within the force, expressed concerns:
"The budget is balanced because there's a vacancy assumption built in, but the work still has to be done. Members of staff can't do everything if there's not enough of us. They're raising concerns with us on a daily basis."
The Scottish government has stated that funding for policing is currently at record levels.
