On Trial: Protestors versus the Law
New laws aimed at preventing protestors causing disruption and tougher treatment in the courts are leading some to question if the freedom to protest is under threat.
New laws aimed at preventing protestors causing disruption, more severe punishments and fewer defences in court have led some to question if the freedom to protest is coming under threat. Josephine Casserly investigates the growing volume of prosecutions against environmental protestors and examines how the criminal justice system is dealing with such cases. She also examines the increasing use of private injunctions by corporations and public authorities to restrict protests at locations such as public roads and oil terminals. They say the orders are necessary to prevent disruption caused by tactics including walking slowly down roads and blocking entrances to businesses, but lawyers acting for protestors say they amount to a "privatised system of justice."
Reporter: Josephine Casserly
Producer: Tom Wall
Production Coordinators: Ellie Dover & Tim Fernley
Editor: Carl Johnston
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Is the freedom to protest under threat from new laws and tougher treatment in the courts?
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- Tue 2 Jul 2024 20:0091热爆 Radio 4 FM
- Wed 3 Jul 2024 11:0091热爆 Radio 4 FM
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