The United Kingdom is currently facing a complex challenge in balancing the right to protest with maintaining public order, particularly in light of recent pro-Palestine demonstrations. This issue has brought to the forefront the ongoing debate about how to manage mass protests effectively while respecting fundamental rights.
A report from the conservative think tank Policy Exchange has highlighted potential missteps in the police's handling of pro-Palestine marches. The Metropolitan Police Service, the largest territorial police force in the UK, has acknowledged some initial errors in their approach. Matt Twist, an assistant commissioner, admitted that they did not act swiftly enough to arrest individuals calling for "jihad" at the onset of the protests following the escalation of the Israel-Gaza conflict.
The police's response was reportedly influenced by legal advice and guidance from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the principal agency for criminal prosecutions in England and Wales. However, Twist stated that they have since refined their approach, focusing more on identifying reasonable grounds for arrest and taking necessary action when required.
Public opinion appears to align with a more interventionist approach to disruptive protests. A poll conducted for Policy Exchange revealed widespread support for police intervention in protests that impede daily activities or involve offensive slogans. This sentiment reflects growing frustration among citizens who find their routines disrupted by frequent demonstrations, whether related to the Israel-Gaza conflict or other issues such as climate change.
"People unable to get to work because climate change protestors have blocked the road or cannot visit city centres because they have become regular weekend settings for mass demonstrations want to see this sorted out."
The UK government is currently reviewing protest laws, which the Policy Exchange report suggests have developed in an overly "pro-protestor" manner. This review aims to address the balance between the right to protest, protected under Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights, and the rights of ordinary citizens to go about their daily lives without undue disruption.
It's worth noting that the UK has a long history of protest movements, from the Suffragettes to more recent demonstrations. The challenge lies in adapting to the changing nature of protests while upholding the principle of "policing by consent" that underpins UK law enforcement.
As the debate continues, it's clear that finding the right balance between protecting the freedom of expression and maintaining public order remains a critical issue for UK society and its institutions.