The government calls for a review of legislation following the arrests of activists

• More than 500 people were detained during the protest in London.
• Human rights organizations are calling to suspend the persecution of activists.
• The Human Rights Commission expressed concern about police actions.

In Great Britain, a discussion has erupted regarding the application of anti-terrorist legislation following mass arrests of activists supporting the banned group Palestine Action. During a recent demonstration in London, over 500 people were detained, many of whom were holding placards in support of Palestine.

Human rights organizations, such as Greenpeace and Human Rights Watch, called for the suspension of the persecution of activists, as long as the legality of the actions of Palestine Action remains unresolved. They stated that further persecution could jeopardize the right to freedom of expression.

The Human Rights Commission of Great Britain also expressed concern about the "heavy-handed" approach of the police to protests related to the situation in Gaza. In a letter to the Minister of Internal Affairs and the head of the Metropolitan Police, it was emphasized that any interference with the right to protest must be lawful and assessed on an individual basis.

According to the statements of the Minister of Internal Affairs, the group Palestine Action was banned due to its links with terrorism and serious crimes. However, opponents of this ban argue that the use of anti-terrorist laws against peaceful protesters could have detrimental consequences for democratic freedoms.

Currently, activists are awaiting a court hearing in November, which will likely resolve the issue of the legality of the ban on the activities of Palestine Action.

Tags: Europe/Politics