The Bunker – News without the nonsense Trial and terror: What actually happens when a group is 'proscribed'?
Jul 3, 2025
In this discussion, Lee Jarvis, a Professor of International Politics at Loughborough University and an expert in security and terrorism, dives into the complexities of proscribing organizations like Palestine Action under anti-terror laws. He unpacks what 'prescribing' truly means and its implications for protest in the UK. The conversation touches on the legal definitions of terrorism, the political ramifications of banning groups, and the delicate balance between security and civil liberties in a democracy.
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UK Terrorism Definition Analysis
- Under UK law, terrorism involves actions to influence government or intimidate the public for political or ideological causes.
- Violence against people is not necessary; serious property damage or risks to health and safety can qualify as terrorism.
Controversy Over Broad Terrorism Labels
- Palestine Action's disruptive actions are being framed as terrorism, sparking debate on the broadness of such designations.
- This raises questions about protests being criminalized under counter-terrorism laws.
Variation in Terrorist Group Bans
- The UK lists about 95 organisations as banned terrorist groups, differing from other countries' lists.
- This disparity highlights the political and strategic nature of designating terrorist groups.