Asylum
Further guidance for communities
Flags
Attaching items such as flags, signs or banners to lampposts or other road infrastructure is an offence under the terms of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984. They can cause damage, obstruct visibility, and distract drivers. The Highland Council will remove any unauthorised items from its infrastructure.
Your right to protest
‘Peaceful’ protests are protected by law, in Scotland, by the European Convention on Human Rights. Protecting the legal right to march, parade and protest is central to Scotland as a democratic and multicultural country. The right to ‘freedom of peaceful assembly’ may be restricted when:
- the protest involves threatening, abusive, or insulting behaviour
- there is intent to stir up hatred against protected groups under the Hate Crime and Public Disorder (Scotland) Act 2021
- the group is illegal to join or show support for under terrorism legislation
Organisers of a march or parade must formally notify the local authority and Police Scotland of their intentions at least 28 days before the date of their march or parade.
Hate crime
Hate crime is the term used to describe behaviour that is both criminal and rooted in prejudice or intended to stir up hatred. Hate crimes can be reported:
- by calling 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency)
- online using Police Scotland’s reporting form
- in person at any police station
- through Third Party Reporting Centres (such as housing associations)
- anonymously using Crimestoppers (0800 555 111).