Keenan Examines the Investigatory Powers Tribunal

16 April 2025

In a recent article for Computer Weekly, GCDC member Dr Bernard Keenan examines the origins and functions of the Investigatory Powers Tribunal, a ‘semi-secret’ judicial body that handles complaints relating to privacy and the use of surveillance powers. Keenan traces the Tribunal’s evolution, noting how its functions and procedures have developed over time. In particular, he explains that while the Tribunal initially favoured private or partly private hearings, it is now required to make efforts to hold proceedings publicly, where it would be possible to do so without disclosing sensitive information.

Ultimately, Keenan characterises the Tribunal today as ‘selectively translucent’ in its operations, as action from human rights campaigners, the media, and the judiciary has led the body to transform itself into one ‘capable of investigating state excesses, while informing the public of their rights’.

Read the full article on the Computer Weekly website.

Image of the Royal Courts of Justice by David Castor (licensed under CC0).