Palestine Hunger Strikers: UN Expresses Grave Concerns
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UK Hunger Strike Raises Human Rights Concerns
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UN experts warn the treatment of Palestine Action-affiliated prisoners on hunger strike may violate international law, as families plead for a meeting with the Justice Secretary.
The Situation: Hunger Strike and International Scrutiny
As of February 29, 2024, eight prisoners affiliated with the now-banned Palestine Action group are engaged in a hunger strike while awaiting trial. They face charges related to alleged offenses connected to the groupS activities. The hunger strikers are protesting their prolonged detention on remand, a situation exacerbated by significant court backlogs in the UK.
On February 26, 2024, UN human rights experts issued a statement expressing “grave concern” over the wellbeing of the strikers. They emphasized that preventable deaths in custody are unacceptable and that the UK state bears full duty for the health and lives of those it detains. The experts specifically highlighted potential violations of international human rights law, including obligations to protect life and prevent cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. The Guardian reported on the UN statement,detailing the urgency of the situation.
Key individuals and Locations
Two of the hunger strikers, Qesser Zuhrah (age 20) and Amu Gib (age 30), are currently being held at HMP Bronzefield, a women’s prison located in Surrey, England. The UK government website lists HMP Bronzefield as one of its facilities.
Families and supporters of the hunger strikers have directly appealed to David Lammy, the current Justice Secretary, for a meeting. Lawyers representing the group have sent a legal letter arguing that Lammy’s refusal to meet violates the Ministry of Justice’s own policies regarding the handling of hunger strikes. David Lammy was appointed Justice Secretary on November 13, 2023, following the reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Rishi sunak. Gov.uk provides a biography of David Lammy.
Government Response and Concerns
While there is reported concern within the government regarding the prisoners’ condition, officials are exercising extreme caution about meeting with the hunger strikers. A key concern is setting a precedent that could encourage further hunger strikes from the large number of prisoners facing lengthy remands due to the significant backlog in the UK court system. The court backlog has been a persistent issue, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing staffing challenges.
the Ministry of Justice has not publicly commented on the specific allegations of policy violations raised by the lawyers representing the hunger strikers. However, a spokesperson stated that the wellbeing of prisoners is a priority and that appropriate medical care is being provided to those on hunger strike.