Greta Thunberg and activists acquitted as judge deems police conditions 'unlawful'

Climate activist Greta Thunberg and four others have been cleared of a public order offence after a judge dismissed the case, citing “unlawful” conditions imposed by the police during a protest outside a fossil fuel conference in London last October. District Judge John Law ruled on Friday that the conditions set by the police were “so unclear that it is unlawful,” stating that individuals failing to comply were not committing any offense. The protesters had been ordered to move away from the oil and gas conference to a designated area after five hours of protest. The prosecution argued that the order was necessary due to the protest making access to the InterContinental Hotel in Mayfair “impossible.” However, Judge Law found that the main entrance to the hotel remained accessible, rendering the conditions imposed on the protesters unnecessary. The judge further emphasised that the protest was peaceful and non-violent throughout. He concluded that the unclear and unreasonable conditions disproportionately interfered with the protesters’ right to free speech under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. During the proceedings, footage was presented in which Greta Thunberg resisted moving when asked by a police officer, responding with “I’m staying.” The judge noted the lack of evidence regarding any impediment to the hotel, interference with emergency services, or risk to life. Protesters watching from the gallery cheered as all five defendants, including Thunberg, were acquitted. The verdict highlighted the importance of protecting peaceful protest, with Thunberg’s lawyer Raj Chada emphasizing that the state should focus on addressing the climate crisis. The acquittal follows months of disruptive climate protests in central London, putting pressure on the police to respond to such actions. The decision underscores the delicate balance between the right to protest and the concerns of those affected. The outcome of this case marks a step towards rebalancing the right to protest against environmental concerns. Solicitor Mike Schwarz, representing two of the activists, stressed the need for legislation and policies to align with rhetoric about protecting the environment.