Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UK Could Exit Human Rights Convention If Conservatives Win

10/5/2025

49 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch said the UK would exit the European Convention on Human Rights if the Conservatives win the next election.
Rights groups condemned the plan as cowardly, saying it would undermine protections and human rights.
Lord Wolfson's legal review says withdrawal is necessary for full border control.
The announcement comes amid declining Conservative support.

History

Historical Context

The UK signed the European Convention on Human Rights in 1950, aiming to protect civil liberties post-World War II. The Human Rights Act 1998 incorporated these rights into UK law. In 2021, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government faced declining support, with Kemi Badenoch suggesting a potential withdrawal from the Convention, raising concerns about diminished protections for individuals amid ongoing debates over national sovereignty.

1 of 2

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch said the UK would exit the European Convention on Human Rights if the Conservatives win the next election.
Rights groups condemned the plan as cowardly, saying it would undermine protections and human rights.
Lord Wolfson's legal review says withdrawal is necessary for full border control.
The announcement comes amid declining Conservative support.

1 / 2