Currently, a protest's lacking intention at heart (2,2,2)
I believe the answer is:
as it is
'currently' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
I can't explain the remainder of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for as it is that I've seen before include "In the current state of affairs" , "In the existing circumstances" , "In the present circumstances" , "Actual state of affairs, often contrary to expectations" , "Given the position, in the circumstances" .)