Ceasefire Now! (2023-2025), Scotland

Since the start of the Gaza war in October 2023, Scotland has seen frequent — often weekly — pro-Palestinian protests, many drawing crowds in the thousands. Civil-society monitors have reported that policing of these demonstrations has shifted over time, with increased surveillance, intelligence-gathering and a more forceful approach at certain events.

In July 2025 the UK government proscribed Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation. Since then, several people — including Scottish activists — have been arrested for allegedly showing support for the banned group, prompting concern from human-rights organisations about the impact on freedom of expression and the right to protest in the UK.

This work was published as part of investigative reporting with the The Ferret and available on visura.