LONDON (AP) — Sixteen environmental activists challenged their prison sentences in a London court on Wednesday. They were sentenced for actions like blocking traffic, occupying an oil facility, and throwing soup on a van Gogh painting.
The activists, part of the Just Stop Oil group, argue that the sentences—ranging from 15 months to five years—are too severe for their non-violent protests. They view themselves as “political prisoners,” claiming they acted in defense of their communities and the planet.
Lawyer Danny Friedman emphasized that their actions were meant to benefit the public and future generations. He stated, “They sacrificed for what they believe in.”
Five of the activists were jailed for climbing structures over a busy highway during demonstrations in November 2022. Others were punished for tunneling under a road leading to an oil terminal and for their infamous soup-throwing incident at the National Gallery.
The previous Conservative government, which lost power in July 2024, tightened anti-protest laws in reaction to the disruptive tactics used by environmental groups. These measures aimed to prevent activists from disrupting daily life and harming the economy.
Following the change in government, civil liberties organizations have urged the new Labour Party leadership to reconsider these restrictions. Friends of the Earth supports the activists and warns that harsh sentences threaten democracy. Lawyer Katie de Kauwe argued that silencing climate advocates does not resolve the ongoing crises; it only weakens democracy.
The Court of Appeal hearing is expected to last two days, with a ruling to follow in the coming weeks.
In a related incident, two Just Stop Oil protesters were charged with aggravated trespass after disrupting a performance of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” in London. The play features Sigourney Weaver, who was on stage when the protest took place. Following the disruption, the activists shared footage on social media highlighting the lack of action on climate change.
London police reported that Richard Weir, 60, and Hayley Walsh, 42, are scheduled to appear in court on February 25.
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United Kingdom, London, Protests and demonstrations, United Kingdom government, Activism, General news, Europe, Democracy, Richard Weir, World news, Katie de Kauwe, William Shakespeare, Sigourney Weaver, Climate and environment, Courts, Hayley Walsh, Danny Friedman
