Greta Thunberg Pleads Not Guilty in London Court Over Oil Protest Arrest
Climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other Fossil Free London activists, has pleaded not guilty to a public order offence following her arrest at a protest near the InterContinental Hotel in Mayfair last month.
The 20-year-old Swedish national was charged with breaching Section 14 of the Public Order Act 1986, and accused of blocking the entrance to the hotel during the Energy Intelligence Forum, a major oil and gas industry conference.
The protesters, who had gathered to challenge oil executives meeting inside, were ordered by police to move their demonstration to prevent disruption. Despite this, they continued to block Hamilton Place, near Park Lane, leading to multiple arrests. Thunberg, a prominent figure in the global climate movement, confirmed her name and date of birth during the hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court. However, her address in Stockholm was withheld due to concerns over alleged threats she has received.
If found guilty, Thunberg could face a fine of up to £2,500. Outside the court, a group of Greenpeace and Fossil Free London activists chanted and displayed banners reading "Oily Money Out" and "Make Polluters Pay," emphasising their campaign against fossil fuel use by major oil and gas companies.
During the court session Prosecutor Luke Staton outlined the circumstances that led to the charges, stating that the Energy Intelligence Forum aimed to bring together decision-makers from energy, finance, and business to discuss sustainable solutions. This description prompted laughter from the public gallery.
Thunberg, known for her activism since the age of 15, has become a global symbol for climate advocacy. Recently, she faced an incident at a climate rally in Amsterdam where the microphone was snatched from her after inviting speakers from Palestine and Afghanistan. Despite legal challenges, she remains committed to raising awareness about the urgent need for climate action.
The trial is scheduled for February 2024 at the City of London Magistrates' Court.
