Source: The Guardian

The Guardian reports that Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemned the UK government’s decision to ban the Palestine Action group, calling it disproportionate and contrary to international human rights law. The designation of Palestine Action as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act 2000 restricts freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, and association for individuals involved who have not engaged in criminal activity. Türk urged the UK government to rescind the ban and halt police and legal actions against protesters arrested under this proscription.

The ban follows incidents where Palestine Action members engaged in direct actions such as breaking into a military airfield and vandalizing RAF aircraft. Critics argue the government’s response conflates protest with terrorism, setting a dangerous precedent. Civil rights groups, UN experts, and legal professionals have expressed concerns that the ban undermines democratic rights and could suppress lawful activism. The Home Office maintains lawful protest is protected, but the proscription targets criminal activities linked to the group. This controversy highlights tensions between national security and human rights protections in the UK.