Protest Policing and Human Rights: A Dialogical Approach

This book explores protest policing and the options available to police commanders in response. It highlights the importance of the right to peacefully protest and the development of Police Liaison Teams in the UK as a gateway for dialogue between the police and protest groups. It uses two contrasting case studies to explore the experiences of police commanders, police liaison officers, protesters, counterdemonstrators, and other interested parties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the realm of protest policing, exploring the diverse range of strategies and tools available to police commanders when dealing with public demonstrations. The right to peaceful protest is an integral part of democracy and deeply ingrained in British history and culture. However, the role of the police in managing public order and facilitating peaceful protests has faced considerable scrutiny. On occasion, tensions have arisen between police and protest groups, leading to incidents of disorder. In response, the establishment of Police Liaison Teams (PLTs) in the UK has provided a valuable platform for dialogue and communication between the police and those involved in protests.

Drawing upon two contrasting case studies, the policing of the badger cull in South West England and an English Defence League (EDL) march in Liverpool, this book offers a detailed examination of the experiences of police commanders, police liaison officers, protesters, counterdemonstrators, members of local businesses, and other interested parties. It explores how adopting a dialogical approach with all those engaged in or affected by a protest has facilitated the police in striking a delicate balance between safeguarding human rights and minimizing conflict for all involved.

Written in an accessible and engaging style, this book appeals to a wide audience, including students, scholars, and practitioners of policing, politics, criminology, sociology, human rights, and anyone with an interest in understanding how protests are policed. It provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics and challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in managing public demonstrations while upholding the principles of democracy and social justice.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367749682