"worsening crackdown on free speech" for pro-Palestine student protesters in the UK
Posted: 24th February 2025
Our editorially independent journalist unit, Liberty Investigates, and Sky News have revealed evidence of what a teaching union describes as a “worsening crackdown on free speech” for pro-Palestine student protesters in the UK. Their investigation has uncovered cases of universities reporting peaceful pro-Gaza protesters to police, subjecting dozens to disciplinary action, and collaborating with private surveillance firms.
In recent years, the right to protest has come under attack in the UK, and universities are just the latest example. The shocking findings by Liberty Investigates lay bare a “deeply disturbing situation” across UK campuses, according to a UN special rapporteur, in which she accused universities of taking “deliberate actions to curtail” their students’ rights. We call on the Government to demand universities respect and defend students’ rights on campus.
Protest is powerful. Everyone deserves to feel confident and able to speak out on important issues. History shows that when people come together and stand up to power, we can change things for the better. From votes for women to Pride, the UK has a rich history of protests that have driven positive change in society. Students have long been at the forefront of movements for social change, and we must protect their right to continue to make their voices heard.
You have previously expressed interest in our work to protect the right to protest in the past. It is only through the help of our supporters that we can continue our work.
We have written to the Universities Minister, urging her to encourage universities across the country to respect and uphold students’ right to protest on campus.There are concerns that some universities’ code of conducts go against the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Liberty was founded in 1934 to protect the rights of protesters. More than 90 years later, we still proudly stand up to power and campaign to uphold protest rights in the UK. With the strength of your support we can continue to do so. If you believe that the right to protest needs to be protected, donate now, so we can carry on our vital work.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes.
Akiko Hart
Liberty Director
P.S. You can read the details of the full report here.