What Are Proscribed Organisations and Why Does It Matter?
Most people will encounter discussions about terrorism, extremism and national security through the media, online platforms or public debate.
As part of the UK's counter-terrorism framework, some organisations are formally designated as proscribed terrorist organisations.
Understanding what this means is important because there are significant legal implications associated with membership, support and promotion of proscribed groups.
Within universities, awareness of proscribed organisations also helps support the University's Prevent Duty and wider safeguarding responsibilities.
What Is A Proscribed Organisation?
A proscribed organisation is a group that has been formally banned by the UK Government under the Terrorism Act 2000.
The Home Secretary may proscribe an organisation if they reasonably believe it is involved in terrorism.
This may include organisations that:
- Commit acts of terrorism.
- Prepare for acts of terrorism.
- Promote terrorism.
- Encourage terrorism.
- Glorify terrorism.
- Support terrorist activity.
Proscription is one of the mechanisms used to help protect the public and disrupt terrorist activity.
Why Are Organisations Proscribed?
The purpose of proscription is to:
- Restrict terrorist activity.
- Prevent recruitment.
- Disrupt support networks.
- Reduce opportunities for fundraising.
- Protect individuals and communities.
Proscription forms part of the UK's wider counter-terrorism strategy.
What Does Proscription Mean In Practice?
When an organisation is proscribed, specific criminal offences may apply.
These offences can include:
- Membership of a proscribed organisation.
- Claiming to be a member.
- Inviting support for the organisation.
- Arranging meetings that support the organisation.
- Providing resources or assistance.
- Displaying symbols or items that create a reasonable suspicion of support.
The law in this area is complex and should always be understood within its proper legal context.
Does This Apply Online?
Yes.
Support for proscribed organisations can occur both online and offline.
Examples may include:
- Sharing promotional material.
- Disseminating propaganda.
- Encouraging support.
- Fundraising activities.
- Recruitment efforts.
Online activity can have real-world legal consequences.
Individuals should therefore think carefully about the content they engage with, share or promote.
What About Academic Study?
Universities routinely teach and research topics relating to:
- Terrorism.
- Extremism.
- Conflict.
- Political violence.
- International security.
Academic study of proscribed organisations is entirely different from supporting them.
Students and researchers may legitimately access:
- Academic literature.
- Historical records.
- Government reports.
- Research materials.
Context is important.
Research, analysis and critical discussion are legitimate aspects of higher education.
Studying an organisation is not the same as endorsing it.
Freedom Of Speech And Academic Freedom
Universities remain committed to:
- Freedom of speech.
- Academic freedom.
- Research.
- Open debate.
The existence of proscribed organisations legislation does not prevent:
- Academic enquiry.
- Research.
- Critical discussion.
- Debate about public policy.
However, there is an important distinction between discussing an organisation and promoting or supporting it.
Universities seek to maintain environments where difficult topics can be explored responsibly and lawfully.
How Does This Relate To Prevent?
The Prevent Duty requires universities to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism.
Awareness of proscribed organisations can help individuals understand:
- Risks associated with extremist recruitment.
- The legal framework surrounding terrorism.
- Why certain activities may raise safeguarding concerns.
- The importance of early intervention and support.
Prevent focuses on vulnerability, safeguarding and risk reduction rather than criminalising legitimate debate or academic enquiry.
What Should I Do If I Am Concerned?
If you are concerned that:
- Someone may be vulnerable to extremist influence.
- Someone is promoting terrorist activity.
- Recruitment activity may be occurring.
- Harmful extremist material is being circulated.
You should:
✓ Record relevant information.
✓ Avoid conducting your own investigation.
✓ Seek advice.
✓ Use the University's safeguarding or Prevent reporting arrangements.
Appropriately trained staff can assess concerns and determine what action, if any, may be required.
Where Can I Find The Current List?
The list of proscribed organisations changes over time as legislation and government decisions evolve.
For the most up-to-date information, individuals should refer to official UK Government sources rather than relying on information shared through social media or unofficial websites.
Key Message
Proscribed organisations are groups that have been formally banned under UK counter-terrorism legislation because of their involvement in terrorism or the promotion of terrorism.
There are significant legal consequences associated with membership, support and promotion of proscribed organisations.
Universities continue to support freedom of speech, academic freedom and legitimate research whilst also meeting their responsibilities to protect individuals and communities from the risks associated with terrorism and extremist violence.
Understanding the difference between academic discussion and unlawful support is an important part of responsible participation in university life and wider society.