Dr. Ethan Shattock Interviewed on France 24 about Kneecap, Palestine Action, and Freedom of Expressi
Dr. Ethan Shattock Appeared on France 24 News on Wednesday August 20th
Dr. Ethan Shattock appeared on France 24 News to discuss the recent controversies surrounding the Irish rap trio Kneecap and the UK government's proscription of Palestine Action. Ethan was interviewed about how these recent events can be seen in light of the right to freedom of expression and the dangers of censoring political expression from artistic and satirical figures.
The UK's Counter Terrorism Police, specifically the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Command, initiated an investigation into the Irish rap trio Kneecap under the Terrorism Act 2000 following the emergence of two controversial videos from concerts in November 2023 and November 2024.
The UK Government proscribed Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000, following incidents including members breaking into a military airfield in June 2025 and causing property damage, such as spray-painting military aircraft. This proscription, effective from 5 July 2025, criminalises membership, support, or displaying symbols associated with Palestine Action, with penalties including fines and up to 14 years imprisonment.
