UK Supreme Court Appeal - Palestine Action, Proscription and Public Law

In July 2025, the British government controversially proscribed Palestine Action as a terrorist organization under the Terrorism Act 2000, citing its direct-action campaigns against Israeli defense firms that have participated in an offensive action that the ICJ have said is a plausible case of genocide. Among other things, the proscription criminalised support, the invitation of support or membership for the group. In February 2026, the High Court ruled the ban unlawful, finding it breached freedom of speech and assembly as the vast majority of the group's activities did not constitute terrorism. However, the Court of Appeal overturned that decision in June 2026, unanimously restoring the ban and ruling the restriction ‘justified and proportionate’ due to organized criminal damage. The UK Supreme Court (UKSC) subsequently granted the group’s co-founder, Huda Ammori, permission to appeal. The case now rests with the UKSC to deliver a final, definitive ruling on the legality of the terrorism designation.

We will be livestreaming the first day of the appeal in BLOC cinema. We will also be joined throughout the day by several expert speakers to discuss the legal and political issues surrounding the case.

Dr Daniella Lock (KCL) will focus on the public law issues with a particular focus on national security law.

Prof. David Whyte (QMUL) will provide a broader history of protest and direct action, as well as to explain separate but related criminal cases being brought against Palestine Action defendants.

Prof. Merris Amos (QMUL) will explain the human rights law issues at stake.

Dr Tanzil Chowdhury will provide some context and an overview of the legal mechanism by which these proceedings are being brought.

Though this will be a full day event, people are welcome to join and leave as they please.