Marches and parades

Sectarianism can be associated with marches and parades because some of these are seen to celebrate ancient sectarian battles, include martial music and banners, and route through areas where they may cause offence to parts of the local community.

The right to march: legislation on marches and parades in Scotland

The right to march is protected by the European Convention on Human Rights and is a powerful visible sign of a robust democracy. But with those rights come responsibilities. The Scottish Government provides guidance for local authorities on managing marches. Police have powers related to marches and parades under the Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2006.

Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2006

Marches can be prevented or have restrictions placed on them for the following reasons:

• Public safety
• Public order
• Damage to property
• Disruption to the life of the community.

Parades, Protests and Policing: A Human Rights Framework

This 2001 report was produced on behalf of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission.

It explores the relevance of international human rights standards, particularly European standards, to parades and protests and the policing of those events in Northern Ireland.

The report concludes that freedom of assembly includes the right to parade but that this has to be balanced against the rights and freedoms of others.