Author: Rahul

Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more obscure Latin words, consectetur, from a Lorem Ipsum passage, and going through the cites of the word in classical literature, discovered the undoubtable source. Lorem Ipsum comes from sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 of “de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum” (The Extremes of Good and Evil) by Cicero, written in 45 BC. This book is a treatise on the theory of ethics, very popular during the Renaissance. The first line of Lorem Ipsum, “Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet..”, comes from a line in section 1.10.32.

The standard chunk of Lorem Ipsum used since the 1500s is reproduced below for those interested. Sections 1.10.32 and 1.10.33 from “de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum” by Cicero are also reproduced in their exact original form, accompanied by English versions from the 1914 translation by H. Rackham.

The spectrum of protests is wide ranging from organised, peaceful and lawful gatherings to extremist actions involving violence. Knowing where a protest falls on this spectrum is key to determining the right response. Below are the different types of protests and how they can be effectively managed, balancing the need for safety with the protection of democratic rights and the rights of others to go about their lawful business.

1. Peaceful Protests: The Foundation of Democratic Expression

At one end of the spectrum, we have peaceful protests. These are typically organised in advance, with clear objectives and communication with local authorities. Peaceful protests can include marches, sit-ins, vigils, or demonstrations where participants aim to express their views without resorting to violence or unlawful activities.

Characteristics: Organisers usually notify authorities in advance, allowing for coordination on routes, times, and safety measures. These protests are often characterised by banners, chants, speeches, and a high degree of organization.
Challenges: While peaceful, they can still cause disruption—blocking roads, drawing crowds, and potentially impacting local businesses or services. The challenge is to manage these without infringing on participants’ rights.
Management Strategy: The key here is collaboration. Engaging with protest organisers early to understand their plans and objectives. This approach allows for joint planning, where safety measures can be established, routes agreed upon, and facilitative services prepared. Effective communication with both protestors, probable counter-protesters and the general public is essential to minimise and explain disruption to ensure safety.

2. Spontaneous Protests: The Challenge of the Unplanned

enneth Macleod, Training Manager at Risk Management Resources Ltd, discusses ways to prepare security management teams for protest situations.

Every person in the UK has a right to protest peacefully.

Article 10, freedom of expression and Article 11, freedom of assembly are qualified rights of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR) which was ratified by the UK in 1951.

In 1998, the passing of the Human Rights Act ensured that these rights were enacted in UK law.

There is an understanding that peaceful protest is allowed and should not be interfered with by the state.