Governments in wealthy countries are clamping down on climate protests with harsh measures, while criticizing similar actions in less developed regions, according to a new report.
Matthew Taylor reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- A report from Climate Rights International shows a rise in crackdowns on climate activists in countries like the U.S., UK and Germany.
- These nations, which promote free speech and protest globally, impose lengthy prison sentences, preemptive arrests and new restrictive laws on their own citizens.
- The report urges governments to view climate activists as allies in the fight against environmental collapse, not as threats.
Key quote:
“Governments should see climate protesters and activists as allies in the fight against climate change, not criminals.”
— Brad Adams, director of Climate Rights International
Why this matters:
Restricting peaceful protests undermines democratic values and discourages action on climate change. These tactics, if unchecked, could set a precedent for authoritarian governments to follow suit.
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