Kill the Bill

In 2021 a new anti-protest bill put forth by The United Kingdom has raised profound concern and alarm from both citizens and human rights groups. This is coming from a developed nation which along with the United States often has many derogatory comments/positions on the manner in which other countries treat their citizens. Whilst the UK is often vocal in pointing out human abuses it is without the often direct meddling of the U.S. – meaning that the States often goes a step further by intervening in other countries. Following a variety of recent events including the Presidency of Donald Trump and an insurrection with fatalities at the U.S. Capitol combined with a host of other things such as the 2020 U.S. election (which was/is still called illegitimate by the former President), the country is no longer seen as a shining beacon that is suitable to dictate and meddle in other countries.

From the start of the pandemic we have seen our freedoms and liberties eroded and curtailed with immediate effect. These measures set dangerous precedents for the control which governments now can exercise in our lives, seemingly with immediate effect – let us recall Prime Minister Boris Johnson telling people to unpack for Christmas as he had decided on another lockdown. In my opinion given this precedent it is far easier now to push through laws of this nature. Do your own research on the role of the police, enhanced powers of the police and government and the anti-protest bill in the UK and the right to demonstrate in democratic nations and evaluate where you stand on your rights.

This article celebrates the work of Fran Hales an international photographer from New Zealand based in London and the images collected at protests in London www.franhales.com