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In many places, governments are making laws to punish peaceful protesters. Instead of listening to voices calling for action on climate change, they’re cracking down on those who raise awareness.
What Is Criminalization?
Criminalization happens when laws are changed to make normal activities illegal. This often targets people who stand up for rights, creating fear and silencing dissent. It’s usually the marginalized groups who feel the brunt of these actions. These changes are often pushed by big corporations wanting to protect their interests while ignoring the climate emergency.
A Global Trend
Heavy policing and arrests of environmental activists are rising worldwide. In the UK alone, about 7,000 climate activists have faced arrest since 2019; many have been charged. A study found police are three times more likely to charge peaceful climate protesters compared to violent far-right groups.
Just last year, five activists from Just Stop Oil received record prison sentences for their peaceful protest. Their punishments sparked outrage, with many activists stepping back from direct actions due to fear.
In Australia, things are similarly grim. One in five environmental protests leads to arrests, much higher than the global average of about 6.7%. Human Rights Watch has criticized this heavy-handed approach, claiming it violates the right to peaceful assembly.
In the U.S., tragic incidents have occurred too. In 2023, climate activist Manuel Esteban Paez Terán was killed by police during a protest against a controversial police facility that threatened a forest community.
Emerging Laws Against Activists
New laws are emerging globally that specifically target activists. In the UK, the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act gives sweeping powers to control protests deemed too disruptive. In Australia, hefty fines have been introduced for protests that block transport routes.
Meanwhile, across Asia, similar oppressive laws are being used. In countries like India and Indonesia, vague laws are being twisted to stifle activism, branding peaceful defenders as threats.
Weaponizing Existing Laws
Existing harsh laws are also being weaponized against activists. This includes using anti-terrorism measures to surveil and prosecute non-violent protesters. Many activists face accusations that portray them as dangerous, leading to increased mistrust in the community.
The Way Forward
The criminalization of defenders shapes how society views environmental issues. To change this dangerous trend, we need legal protections for activists worldwide. Strong laws should support their rights to advocate without fear of imprisonment.
In democracies, making these voices illegal sends a discouraging message globally: silencing dissent is an acceptable practice. Repealing oppressive laws is crucial, ensuring that activists can continue their vital work for our planet.
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