Why the Troubles Act faces a legal challenge in Belfast

Relatives of victims bring case against controversial legislation to High Court

Relatives of people killed during the Troubles stand outside Belfast's High Court
The UK government's Troubles Act has been opposed by victims' groups and Northern Ireland's political parties
(Image credit: PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo)

The High Court in Belfast is hearing a legal challenge against a controversial new act of parliament that will stop future prosecutions regarding crimes committed during the Troubles. 

When the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill was announced in July 2021, the then prime minister Boris Johnson said it would allow Northern Ireland to "draw a line under the Troubles". 

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Julia O'Driscoll is the engagement editor. She covers UK and world news, as well as writing lifestyle and travel features. She regularly appears on “The Week Unwrapped” podcast, and hosted The Week's short-form documentary podcast, “The Overview”. Julia was previously the content and social media editor at sustainability consultancy Eco-Age, where she interviewed prominent voices in sustainable fashion and climate movements. She has a master's in liberal arts from Bristol University, and spent a year studying at Charles University in Prague.