The United Nations’ top human rights official has sharply criticized the UK government’s Palestine Action ban. He called it a “disturbing” misuse of counter-terrorism laws that threatens fundamental freedoms.
Therefore, Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, warned the Palestine Action ban is “disproportionate and unnecessary.” He argued it unlawfully restricts peaceful protest rights under international law.
Furthermore, the UK government proscribed Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000 earlier this month. This followed activists vandalizing military aircraft at RAF Brize Norton, causing £7 million in damages. The group has targeted arms companies linked to Israel since the Gaza war began.
Moreover, the Palestine Action ban makes membership or support punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Over 170 arrests have already been made under the law.
Türk argued the ban oversteps by criminalizing people who merely express solidarity without engaging in violence.
In addition, the Palestine Action ban has drawn wider scrutiny of Britain’s protest policies. Human rights groups are warning of a concerning trend. Since 2022, the UK has introduced stricter laws on demonstrations, including the controversial Public Order Act. This act grants police broader powers to shut down protests deemed disruptive. Critics argue these measures, combined with the terrorism designation of activist groups, risk eroding democratic freedoms.
“Protest in support of Palestinians is lawful,” Security Minister Dan Jarvis countered. He insisted the ban only applies to those involved in “orchestrated criminality.”
Legal experts warn the UK’s broad terrorism definition—which includes property damage—deviates from international standards. Türk stressed terrorism should only cover acts intended to cause death or hostage-taking.
Palestine Action is fighting the ban in court, with a High Court ruling expected soon. Critics say the move sets a dangerous precedent for suppressing dissent. As tensions rise over Gaza, the case tests the balance between security and civil liberties in the UK.
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