Great Britain: London takes tougher action against protesters

The police and the judiciary in Great Britain can now take even tougher action against unsavory protests. Laws have also come into effect. Disturbing traffic is punishable by several years in prison. Critics are alarmed.

In Great Britain, additional parts of a controversial law have come into force that make certain methods used in demonstrations subject to heavy fines. The government wants to take action against the environmental activists who are blocking traffic due to continuous protests. Police officers can now ask demonstrators to clear the street.

Those found obstructing important transport facilities will be jailed for up to six months. Anyone who builds or remains in a tunnel causing serious disturbance can be jailed for up to three years. Additionally, it is now illegal to block the construction or maintenance of future transportation networks.

According to the Home Office, protests at construction sites, for example, put a financial burden on taxpayers. Digging temporary tunnels has been used for years as a form of protest against projects such as the high-speed rail link. Also used by groups such as Extinction Rebellion and Just Stop Oil.

Critics warn of authoritarian tendencies

The conservative government has committed itself to freedom of demonstration, but has strongly criticized radical forms of protest. “Hard working people want to go about their daily lives undisturbed by a selfish minority,” said Interior Secretary Suella Braverman. “The public is tired of having their lives disrupted by self-interested protesters. The chaos we’ve seen on our streets is scandalous.”

On the other hand, critics warn of authoritarian tendencies, with tightening laws jeopardizing the right to protest. In recent months, the government has clamped down on protesters’ rights, including being marched slowly, taped or chained.

Police officers have the right to arrest anyone who disturbs the public peace. Officials first exercised this right on the fringes of King Charles III’s coronation. Used – and heavily criticized for it. Despite the harsh measures, environmental groups continued their activities.