UN experts have expressed "grave concern" for the lives and fundamental rights of eight pro-Palestine activists who have been on hunger strike.
Four hunger strikers remain, with two sharing they are "losing the ability to speak or stand" after more than 50 days without food.
In statement released earlier this week, seven UN experts have called out the UK Government's treatment of the protesters and their refusal to meet their families and representatives.
“Hunger strike is often a measure of last resort by people who believe that their rights to protest and effective remedy have been exhausted,” the statement from the group of UN experts said.
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It continues: “The state’s duty of care toward hunger strikers is heightened, not diminished.
“Authorities must ensure timely access to emergency and hospital care when clinically indicated, refrain from actions that may amount to pressure or retaliation, and respect medical ethics.”
The experts – including Gina Romero, the special rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, Tlaleng Mofokeng, the special rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health and Cecilia M Bailliet, the independent expert on human rights and international solidarity – urged for respect for the right to health is applicable to everyone, "including persons deprived of their liberty".
They also stressed that the UK Government must "respect individual autonomy, ensure continuous, independent medical monitoring, provide accurate information about health risks", as well as take all necessary steps to protect life and prevent irreversible harm.
The group further called into question the treatment of the hunger strikers, including reported delays in accessing medical care, use of excessive restraint during hospital treatment, denial of contact with family members and legal counsel, and lack of consistent independent medical oversight, particularly for detainees with serious pre-existing health conditions.
“These reports raise serious questions about compliance with international human rights law and standards, including obligations to protect life and prevent cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment,” the experts said.
The group have already raised concerns with the UK Government regarding the proscription of Palestine Action under the Terrorism Act 2000, and the subsequent mass arrests and criminal charges, including terrorism-related offenses, brought against individuals for alleged support for Palestine Action.
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“These hunger strikes must be understood within the broader context of restrictions on pro-Palestinian activism in the UK,” the experts said.
They urged the United Kingdom to immediately guarantee appropriate healthcare for all hunger strikers and an end to the repression of Palestine activism, adding: “Preventable deaths in custody are never acceptable. The state bears full responsibility for the lives and wellbeing of those it detains. Urgent action is required now.”
The experts have said they are ready to engage constructively with the UK Government, and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
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