Australian political activist Drew Pavlou has ignited a fresh wave of controversy with a recent tweet questioning perceptions of immigration and national identity, particularly within the United Kingdom. The post, made on September 28, 2025, used a provocative comparison to challenge prevailing narratives.
"If the British family are “foreign immigrants,” what does that make random Pakistani guys stealing swans from public parks?" Pavlou stated in his tweet.
The statement appears to be a rhetorical question, drawing a stark, and some argue, inflammatory, contrast between different groups perceived as immigrants or "foreign." This tweet aligns with Pavlou's recent focus on immigration issues, including his August 2025 video where he criticized the "yookayification" of Australia, a term often used by the British far-right to describe perceived societal decline due to immigration policies.
Pavlou, an Australian activist known for his strong criticism of the Chinese government, has increasingly engaged in debates surrounding immigration and demographic change. His past activism includes leading protests against Chinese influence and launching the Drew Pavlou Democratic Alliance political party. However, he has also faced accusations of promoting right-wing and anti-immigrant sentiments, particularly following his video targeting Chinese businesses in Melbourne.
The specific reference to "Pakistani guys stealing swans" in public parks lacks immediate verifiable context from recent news reports. This phrase, however, could be interpreted as an attempt to invoke a stereotype or a specific, unverified incident to underscore his point about perceived double standards in public discourse on immigration. The tweet's divisive nature has prompted strong reactions online, with some users criticizing its underlying implications and others engaging with the broader themes of immigration and cultural assimilation.
This latest social media post continues Pavlou's pattern of using provocative language to draw attention to his views on societal and political issues. His engagement with such sensitive topics frequently places him at the center of public debate, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration, national identity, and the language used to discuss them.