George Monbiot argues that democratic rights and freedom of dissent are under growing pressure from governments, corporate lobbying and wealthy political interests. He says this trend is visible in the United States and, increasingly, the UK, where he believes measures against protest, legal defence and jury independence risk weakening long-established civil liberties.

The article highlights Trump administration officials’ calls to refocus counterterrorism efforts on the political left, alongside claims linking activists and legislators to Cuba. Monbiot also focuses on the prosecution of Rajiv Menon KC for contempt of court after he reminded jurors of their right to acquit according to conscience; Menon is described as the first English lawyer charged over a closing speech and could face up to two years in prison and disbarment if convicted.