A group of climate activists in Germany, known as Last Generation, has announced their decision to abandon the controversial tactic of gluing themselves to streets to block traffic. Instead, they plan to focus on holding what they refer to as 'disobedient assemblies' as part of their ongoing protests.
Over the past two years, Last Generation has been actively involved in a range of climate demonstrations, most notably blocking roads in Berlin and other cities. Their tactics, however, have drawn widespread criticism, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz describing them as 'completely nutty.'
Despite the backlash, Last Generation claims that the number of demonstrators supporting their cause has significantly increased in the past two years. In light of this, the group has decided to switch to a new form of protest that will be both impactful and impossible to ignore.
Starting in March, Last Generation intends to hold disobedient gatherings with large crowds, instead of small groups blocking roads. Their goal is to create a highly visible presence and draw attention to the urgency of addressing climate change.
Furthermore, the group plans to directly confront individuals and institutions they deem responsible for climate destruction. This means engaging with politicians and decision-makers in public, while recording their interactions on camera. Last Generation aims to hold these individuals accountable for their roles in perpetuating environmental harm.
Additionally, the group plans to intensify their protests by targeting locations associated with fossil fuel industries, such as airports, oil pipelines, and energy companies. By actively protesting at these sites of 'fossil destruction,' Last Generation hopes to highlight the damaging impact of these industries on the environment.
In recent times, Last Generation's activities have been overshadowed by protests against right-wing extremism and other demonstrations, including those by farmers against cuts to their diesel subsidies. However, Last Generation remains determined to maintain a strong presence and continue advocating for urgent action to combat climate change.
With their shift in tactics, Last Generation aims to make an even greater impact on public awareness, igniting conversations about the pressing need for environmental sustainability. Their decision to transition to 'disobedient assemblies' represents a new chapter in their campaign, with a focus on confrontational yet nonviolent forms of protest that they believe will be impossible to ignore.