Greta Thunberg among defendants in London court over disrupted oil conference

Greta Thunberg made a statement on Thursday outside a London court, according to Reuters. "Even though we stand here today, and climate, environmental and human rights activists across the globe face persecution, occasional conviction, and legal sanctions for actions rooted in science, we must remember who the real enemy is," said the 21-year-old. "What are we defending? Whose rights should we be protecting?" she questioned.

The trial focuses on public order offences. Five individuals, ranging in age from 19 to 59, face charges. The activists stand accused of disregarding orders from high-ranking police officers, who directed them to relocate their protest to a designated area. Greta Thunberg, along with other defendants, pleaded not guilty. If found guilty, each of them could potentially receive a maximum fine of £2,500.

Thunberg was apprehended on October 17, 2023, while picketing in front of a hotel, wherein the Energy Intelligence Forum was hosting leaders from the oil and gas industry. Whilst in court, a recording of her arrest was played back, during which the protesters chanted their opposition to the oil industry with shouts of "Oily money out!"

Throughout the hearing, the defendant Thunberg was seated at the defendants' bench, taking notes in her notebook, states Reuters. After the court proceedings concluded, she met environmental activists demonstrating outside the courtroom. "Climate protest is not a crime" - the gathered crowd chanted. The trial is expected to adjourn on Friday when Thunberg will offer her testimony.

Source: Reuters