Environmental politics: climate protest without borders? When the wand’s life threatens – entertainment

Damaged artwork that activists spill mashed potatoes on is one thing. But can climate protest, and may it continue, to the point of endangering human life? No, that should not be the case, says Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD), who has never before made such a clear statement about extreme forms of climate protests in recent weeks. Schulz says he pleaded with those involved not to put others in danger. In general, the actions of the “last generation” did not receive “far-reaching applause”. He adds, not even to applause.

Heads shaking about climate action is getting more violent

Marko König, president of the German Rescue Services Association, is not at all enthusiastic. He told the dpa news agency: “If climate activists are stuck in the streets and emergency vehicles arrive at the scene later as a result, it is not only morally reprehensible, but also criminally punishable if it causes harm.” harm to the emergency patient.” Of course, delays can also occur due to accidents or heavy traffic.

However, unlike climate campaigns, “there is basically no intent here.” Koenig is not at all sympathetic to the fact that ambulances are also called upon to “liberate” activists stranded on the road. This definitely crosses “red lines,” he says — and he’s not the only one with these thoughts. After the attacks on paintings, as in the Barberini Museum in Potsdam, the shaking of heads over the works became more violent. The fact that human lives are at stake is another factor that hinders acceptance of the protest.

Calls for consequences are also louder. Meanwhile, the Berlin Public Prosecutor’s Office (as of October 25) received some 730 cases related to ongoing proceedings. The Free Democratic Party in Berlin is calling for the creation of a central body to help those affected assert compensation claims.

Louisa Neubauer found critical words

Even Germany’s leading climate activist, Louisa Neubauer, finds words of criticism: “The legality of the measures stands and falls with the fact that people are not put at risk,” she told dpa on Tuesday. She maintains that critical situations, such as the formation of a rescue corridor, are “regularly planned” for all protest actions by her organization Fridays for the Future. But what she also points out is that there will still be “critical moments” in the future, as long as the conflict behind the protests is not resolved, says Neubauer.

She described Schulz’s reaction as “cynical”. After all, the Chancellor himself “personally” helps ensure that people are indirectly endangered by the political blockade of rapid climate protection. “As long as the government prevents fair climate protection, there will be more and more divisions in society.”