The Public Order Act 1986 was introduced to address various forms of public disorder. The Act provides a framework for controlling riots, violent protests, and other disturbances while balancing the rights of individuals to protest and express themselves freely.
This Act consolidates and expands on earlier legislation to address more comprehensively the issues surrounding public order and safety. It defines specific criminal offences related to riots, violent disorders, affray, and other disturbances in public places, and it sets out the powers available to the police to manage public gatherings and protests to prevent disorder. It balances the need for control of public disturbances with the rights to free expression and protest, reflecting the complexities of managing public order in a democratic society.
The Public Order Act 1986 is currently in force and continues to be a foundational element of UK law concerning the management of public order. It has been amended several times to adapt to changing social norms and technological advancements, particularly in communication and media. Businesses and individuals involved in public events must continually adapt to its requirements to ensure compliance and maintain public safety.
