In Poland, seniors are arrested for “holy” Juras in Scotland for violating the “buffer zone” of abortion

74-year-old Rose Docherty became the first individual arrested under Scottish “buffer zones” law around abortion facilities. Her case sparked a heated discussion on the limits of freedom of speech and the right to protest. This event coincided with criticism by U.S. Vice president J.D. Vance, who condemned akin actions in the UK.

Silent vigil or crime?

Rose Docherty was detained by police outside Queen Elizabeth University infirmary in Glasgow. The female held a banner in her hand with the inscription, “Purity is simply a crime, we are here to talk only if you want”. Although her protest was silent and non-invasive, the police considered it a violation of the Safe Access Areas Act, which has been in force since September 2023.

According to the law, within a radius of 200 meters from abortion facilities, any action that could affect the decision of the individual utilizing abortion services is prohibited, impede access to them or origin anxiety. In practice, this means that even silent protests can be considered a crime.

Reactions of politicians and society

Gillian Mackay, Scottish Green MP and author of the controversial bill, expressed her satisfaction with the arrest of Rose Docherty. – Protests before Queen Elizabeth were absolutely shameful. I am grateful to the police for their swift action," Mackay said. “This kind of intimidation has no place in modern and progressive Scotland. Everyone deserves access to wellness care without harassment," she added, calling the senior's silent vigil "harassment".

In turn, the LifeSiteNews portal highlighted the broader context of this event. It was recalled that Rose's arrest occurred shortly after U.S. Vice president J.D. Vance criticized the British government for arresting pro-life activist Adam Smith-Connor in 2022. Smith-Connor was detained for silent prayer in front of the abortion facility. Vance besides condemned the Scottish government for sending letters to residents of houses in the “buffer zones” informing that even private prayer could be considered a violation of the law.

Scottish officials denied that they were trying to ban prayers in their homes. However, “LifeSiteNews” published a screenshot of 1 of specified letters, which states: “Acts in a private place (such as a house) in an area between a protected area and a region boundary can be a crime if you can see or hear them in a region and are done intentionally or recklessly”.

Controversies around ‘buffer zones’

The Safe Access Areas Act raises much controversy. Her supporters argue that it aims to defend women from force and intimidation. Critics, however, point out that this right can lead to abuse and restrict fundamental civilian liberties, specified as freedom of speech or the right to peaceful gatherings.

Rose Docherta's case shows how hard it is to find a balance between protecting one's rights and limiting the freedom of others. Can a silent vigil with a banner be considered a “harassment”? This question remains open and will surely be the subject of further debate.

Summary

Arresting 74-year-old Rose Docherty is the first case of enforcement of Scottish “buffer zones” law. This event sparked a broad discussion on the limits of freedom of speech and the right to protest. In the face of increasing social and political tensions, the question of where protection ends and censorship begins is becoming more and more relevant.

— ScottishFamilyParty (@scotfamparty) February 19, 2025