a public demonstration or action expressing disapproval or objection to a policy, decision, or situation, often aimed at raising awareness or demanding change

fair treatment and equality under the law

What change has protest achieved?

Citizenship

Pupils explore how rights have developed in the UK and how they are protected. They look at what changes in society have occurred due to protest.

Why do we need the right to protest in a democracy?

Discriminatory behaviour or images, whether on the grounds of race, gender, disability, religion or belief or sexual orientation, or otherwise.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction of war, threats of war, death or the aftermath of war.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Depiction or discussion of sexual or domestic abuse or violence, including  threats of or the aftermath of.

Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

a public demonstration or action showing disapproval to a situation

Match each term to the correct definition.

clear objectives, public support and strategic pressure

spontaneous events without leadership or planning

disrupting essential services for as long as possible

What makes a protest most likely to influence government policy?

they allow activists to take control of government decision-making

they pressure governments to reverse policies instantly

they introduce alternative views and build long-term awareness

they eliminate opposition to government policies permanently

How do protests help shape public debate, even without immediate policy changes?

success is only possible if all protests last for years

governments always resist change, no matter how persistent the protests are

persistence builds pressure and lays the foundation for future change

long-term protests are usually unsuccessful and fade away

What lesson can be learned from protests that take years to achieve change?

it guarantees government action within 24 hours

it helps protests gain legitimacy and pressure decision-makers

it allows protesters to bypass laws without punishment

it ensures that protests always receive positive media attention

Why is public support crucial for protest movements?

What was the name of the campaign founded by Amika George?

the right to cause disruption without consequences

the right to demonstrate or express disapproval about an issue peacefully

the right to break the law when protesting

the right to assemble for any reason without restrictions

a public action expressing disapproval, aimed at raising awareness

the state of peace and security maintained by laws 

a recognised member of a community with rights and responsibilities

Match the word with the correct definition. 

to force the government to change laws immediately

to express public discontent and demand change

to disrupt daily life and cause public inconvenience

What is the purpose of protests in a democracy?

to allow protests only if the government agrees with the cause

to balance citizens' right to protest with public safety and order

to give more power to the government to control protests

protests must be peaceful, and the police can impose restrictions if necessary

protests are not allowed to take place in public spaces

What are the main legal limits on protests in the UK?

What year was the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act introduced?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz