Debate
The right to demonstrate under scrutiny
- Date
- Monday 26 January 2026
- Time
- Address
-
Kamerlingh Onnes Gebouw
Steenschuur 25
2311 ES Leiden - Room
- A.051
Demonstrating is a fundamental human right and one that Dutch citizens are increasingly exercising. At the same time, the freedom to demonstrate has been coming under pressure for some time. Human rights organisations point to the use of prohibited and restrictive regulations, criminal prosecution, surveillance measures, and even home visits. In policy, politics and the media, demonstrations are often portrayed as a problem or a risk, even though only a very small fraction of protests actually lead to problems.
As spaces for open debate, universities are no exception. Demonstrations take place there regularly. However, the semi-public nature of universities and the educational context raise specific questions about the exercise and limitations of the right to protest.
During this meeting, Rowie Stolk, Laura Hanrath and Marloes van Noorloos will discuss the issue of the right to demonstrate with the audience, paying special attention to the university context.
Rowie Stolk is Assistant Professor of Constitutional and Administrative Law at Leiden University. She conducts research on the role of groups in law and supervises law clinics on the right to demonstrate.
Laura Hanrath is a PhD candidate at the Department of Constitutional and Administrative Law at Leiden University. She has published on the right to demonstrate in semi-public spaces.
Marloes van Noorloos is Professor of Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure at Leiden University. She conducts research on the relationship between the right to demonstrate and criminal law.
Note: this event will take place in the Kamerlingh Onnes Building. You must present your LU card to enter the building.
Community. Conversation. Connection.
This lecture is part of the Community. Conversation. Connection series.
The current tensions in the world are affecting our university community. We want to reverse this trend. That’s why, throughout this academic year, we are providing ample room for the organisation of lectures, debates and gatherings on today's pressing issues: war and peace, intolerance, human rights, polarisation, securitisation, the climate and other topics.
Let's come together and listen to each other. Let’s engage in open debate – that is, after all, the beating heart of our university. Of course, discussions may be challenging at times, but they should always be grounded in mutual respect and an openness to the views and beliefs of others.
We invite all members of our community to take part in the Community. Conversation. Connection meetings. Organise an event or sign up for an existing meeting and contribute. Check the events section on the website for upcoming meetings!