Particle.news
Download on the App Store

UK and Denmark Lead Push to Modernise ECHR as Ministers Gather in Strasbourg

The UK seeks backing in Strasbourg for a declaration that could shape how the European court interprets key rights.

Overview

  • Keir Starmer and Mette Frederiksen published a joint op‑ed urging updates to the convention to curb irregular migration and counter far‑right gains.
  • Justice Secretary David Lammy will represent the UK and is expected to argue for tighter readings of Article 8 in deportation cases and a narrower application of Article 3.
  • The government plans domestic legislation to define how Article 8 is applied in UK courts and is considering raising the threshold for Article 3 claims.
  • Human rights groups criticised the drive, and a Freedom From Torture letter signed by 21 public figures urged the prime minister not to weaken protections against torture.
  • Officials say a widely supported political declaration from the Strasbourg meeting could carry weight with the European Court of Human Rights without changing the treaty itself.