Greta Thunberg among activists facing charges in London's public order protest trial

Thunberg made a statement on Thursday outside a London court, according to Reuters. "Even though we're standing here, with climate, environmental, and human rights activists worldwide being pursued, sometimes convicted, and receiving legal sanctions for actions aligned with science, we must focus on the real adversary," asserted the 21-year-old. "What are we defending and who should our rights protect?" she inquired.

The trial focuses on violations of public order. Five individuals aged 19 to 59 are facing charges. The activists are alleged to have disregarded directives by senior police officers, who ordered them to relocate to a designated protest area. Like the other defendants, Thunberg entered a plea of not guilty. If found guilty, each defendant could face a maximum fine of £2,500 (about $3,340).

Thunberg was arrested on October 17, 2023, while picketing in front of a hotel where the Energy Intelligence Forum was hosting industry leaders from the oil and gas sector. In court, a video recording of her arrest was shown, during which protesters chanted "Oily money out!", referring to the oil industry.

Throughout the proceedings, Thunberg sat on the defendant bench, diligently making notes in her notebook, as per Reuters. After the court session ended, she joined a group of environmental activists protesting outside the building. "Climate protest is not a crime," the crowd chanted. The trial is set to conclude on Friday when Thunberg is expected to testify.

Source: Reuters