Peaceful protest is a fundamental right in a democratic country. Recently protesters have gathered in large numbers outside politicians’ homes in England. They are protesting against politicians who support the UK government’s policy on Gaza.
Police have advised some politicians to stay away from their homes as a precaution. When does peaceful protest become intimidation? The Prime Minister has termed it mob rule and there is talk of extending the use of the word ‘extremist’ to include such protesters.
If large numbers of people are opposed to the government’s policies, such as their support for the war in Iraq, surely people have a right to protest. But angry crowds camped outside politicians’ homes does seem to infringe the rights of politicians to enjoy a family life separate from their work at Westminster or in their constituency offices.
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