The right to protest
A significant number of Bond members use advocacy and campaigning as one way of meeting their organisation's objectives.
One of the tools of an effective campaign is often a public demonstration, to raise awareness of an issue and of the public support that a NGO has for its campaign goals, and to put pressure on decision-makers.
The right to hold peaceful demonstrations is therefore crucial - but recent events around the G20 protests in London have highlighted some current threats to that right.
Policing of protest
The right to protest is underpinned by human rights law including the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights produced a report on its inquiry into the policing of protests in the UK in early 2009, which considered evidence from various NGOs and activists. It recommends a number of changes to legislation and police practices.
The Government's initial response included some positive comments on the protection of the right to protest. The full response was published in May 2009 and is available here.
Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) published the second part of its inquiry report into the policing of protest in November 2009. The report concluded that the recent use of heavy-handed tactics threatened to alienate the public and infringe the right to protest. There should be a return to the 'British model' of policing, an approachable, impartial and accountable style with miminal use of force.
Recommendations include a national code of practice and better guidance, improved training, and a review of the use of surveillance of protesters. The report is expected to be endorsed by the Metropolitan Police.
For more information on the right of peaceful protest, see Liberty's guide to human rights.
More on the law and campaigning.
