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Palestine Action is being proscribed under UK law—and what protesters, especially those engaged in pro-Palestinian activism, need to understand:

🚨 What Does “Proscribed” Mean?

To proscribe a group under the Terrorism Act 2000 means the UK government has officially designated it as a terrorist organisation. Once Parliament approves the order:

  • It becomes a criminal offence to:

    • Be a member of Palestine Action

    • Support the group (including fundraising or promoting)

    • Display symbols (e.g. logos, flags) associated with it

    • Organise or attend meetings in support of it

  • Penalties include up to 14 years in prison, fines, or both.

    đź§  What Protesters Should Know

    This proscription does not criminalise all pro-Palestinian protest. But it does raise serious legal risks for activists:

    âś… Still Legal:

    • Peaceful protest in support of Palestinian rights

    • Criticism of UK or Israeli government policy

    • Campaigning for Palestinian liberation—without invoking or supporting Palestine Action

    ❌ Now Illegal (if proscription is passed):

    • Wearing Palestine Action logos or slogans

    • Sharing their content online

    • Donating to or fundraising for them

    • Organising or attending events in their name

    • Publicly expressing support for their actions

    Even reckless expressions of support—like retweeting a video of an action with praise—could be interpreted as a criminal offence.

    🛡️ What Protesters Can Do

    • Know your rights: Peaceful protest is still protected under UK law. But the line between lawful dissent and criminal liability is now sharper.

    • Avoid affiliation: If you’re organising or attending protests, make sure they are not linked to Palestine Action in name, branding, or messaging.

    • Be cautious online: Sharing or endorsing Palestine Action content could be used as evidence of support.

    • Seek legal advice: If you’re unsure whether your actions could be criminalised, consult a solicitor—especially if you’ve previously been involved with the group.

    ⚖️ Wider Implications

    This move sets a significant precedent: it’s the first time a UK-based protest group focused on direct action has been proscribed under terrorism legislation. Critics argue it could chill legitimate activism, especially for causes involving civil disobedience.

    Palestine Action is preparing to challenge the proscription in court, represented by human rights solicitor Gareth Peirce.

Click here to view Amnesty International's Press Release

Click here to view Liberty's Update

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a man holding a flag on top of a roof