At a major international conference, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance took a strong stand against what he calls an attack on basic freedoms.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference on February 14, 2025, Vance criticized the United Kingdom for convicting a British army veteran for the simple act of silent prayer outside an abortion clinic.
Who is Adam Smith-Connor?
The man at the center of this case is Adam Smith-Connor, a 51-year-old veteran who served in Afghanistan.
Last October, he was found guilty under a controversial British law for silently praying near an abortion clinic in Bournemouth.
His crime? Thinking about his unborn son, Jacob, whom he deeply regrets aborting 22 years ago.
Smith-Connor’s conviction came under the UK’s Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which bans protests – including silent prayer – within 150 meters (about 500 feet) of an abortion clinic.
The law was put in place to prevent harassment of clinic staff and patients. But critics say it goes too far by punishing private thoughts and peaceful religious expression.
As a result of the conviction, Smith-Connor received a two-year conditional discharge and was forced to pay nearly £9,000 in prosecution costs.
Now, he and his supporters are fighting back, with plans to appeal the ruling in July 2025.
Vance Sounds the Alarm
Vice President Vance didn’t hold back in his criticism of the UK. He called Smith-Connor’s conviction an alarming example of “backsliding away from conscience rights.”
Vance argued that a man being punished for simply thinking and praying in silence is proof that the UK is becoming one of the most dangerous places for free speech and religious liberty.
“This isn’t just about the UK,” Vance warned. “When governments start policing thoughts and prayers, it’s a sign that fundamental freedoms are under attack everywhere.”
‼️BREAKING: VP Vance just called out the UK authorities for prosecuting Adam Smith-Connor!
Adam was convicted in October for simply praying in his head near an abortion facility.
We’re proud to be have supported Adam’s legal defence, and will be appealing the ruling in July. pic.twitter.com/5IH5vvMSp1
— ADF International (@ADFIntl) February 14, 2025
His remarks sent shockwaves through the conference, drawing applause from conservatives and religious freedom advocates.
But others defended the UK’s actions, saying buffer zones around clinics are necessary to protect women from intimidation.
Critics Say It’s About ‘Protecting Women’
Supporters of the PSPO law claim it prevents harassment of women seeking abortions. They argue that even silent prayer can make women feel pressured or judged when they are making difficult decisions.
But critics point out that Smith-Connor was not protesting or speaking to anyone. He was alone, standing quietly, lost in personal reflection.
“If a government can punish you for what’s inside your head, where does it stop?” asked a representative from ADF International, a legal group supporting Smith-Connor’s appeal.
A Dangerous Precedent?
The case has sparked a heated debate on both sides of the Atlantic.
Many see it as a troubling sign of governments cracking down on freedom of speech and religious expression. Others argue it’s necessary to balance rights in sensitive situations like abortion.
Legal experts warn that allowing governments to criminalize silent prayer sets a dangerous precedent.
“If the government can punish someone for their thoughts today, what will they criminalize tomorrow?” asked one commentator.
The Fight Continues
For Smith-Connor and his supporters, the battle is far from over. He plans to appeal his conviction in July 2025, backed by legal groups who believe the ruling is a major violation of fundamental rights.
Meanwhile, Vice President Vance’s comments have put even more international attention on the issue.
As debates over free speech, religious freedom, and abortion continue, one thing is clear: this case is about more than one man. It’s about the future of fundamental liberties in the Western world.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
