Erosion of Democratic Freedoms in the UK
The Human Rights Watch’s World Report 2025 has unveiled serious concerns about the UK government’s commitment to democratic rights, particularly regarding peaceful protest. Despite the Labour government’s arrival in July 2024, it has failed to dismantle stringent anti-protest laws established by its predecessor and is currently contesting a court ruling that challenged these measures.
A Call for Change Ignored
Yasmine Ahmed, UK director at Human Rights Watch, echoed the disappointment felt by many who had anticipated a reversal in these undemocratic policies. “Many of us had hoped that an incoming Labour government would have repealed the undemocratic anti-protest legislation… That they have chosen not to… beggars belief,” she stated, emphasizing that peaceful protests are fundamental to democracy.
Court Ruling Undermined
In May, a High Court ruling deemed certain anti-protest measures unlawful and was seen as a significant victory for democracy. Campaigners had hoped the new Labour government would heed this decision, but instead chose to appeal the ruling in December, disappointing advocates for civil liberties.
Continued Suppression of Rights
The Labour government has yet to repeal the controversial Public Order Act 2023 and the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, both criticized for increasing police powers while stifling free speech and peaceful assembly. Sadly, this has led to the continued imprisonment of peaceful protesters under these oppressive laws.
Broader Human Rights Concerns
Beyond protests, broader issues plague the UK, including a deepening cost of living crisis that increases poverty and inequality. Additionally, there are rampant hate speech and xenophobia, demonstrated through riots, which political figures and media have, in part, exacerbated. The ongoing struggles with racial discrimination and the migration system remain significant concerns.
A Call for Leadership
“We live in incredibly uncertain times… we need leaders who are going to stand up for the rule of law and our rights and freedoms,” Ahmed concluded, emphasizing the irony of the UK’s stance on human rights abroad while suppressing peaceful protests at home.
Human Rights Watch’s *World Report 2025* highlights the UK government’s failure to uphold democratic rights, especially regarding peaceful protests. The Labour government has appealed court rulings against anti-protest measures and has not repealed harmful legislation. Concerns also extend to socioeconomic issues, hate speech, and migration. Advocacy for civil liberties calls for urgent government action.
The situation in the UK raises alarming questions about the government’s commitment to uphold democratic values. With key laws still in place and a refusal to recognize recent court rulings, the Labour government appears to be perpetuating the very issues it promised to resolve. As concerns about human rights grow, the call for strong leadership and protection of democratic freedoms has never been more urgent.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
