Extinction Rebellion announces actions in Belgium and the Netherlands

In solidarity with the Belgian climate activists that were convicted in the Netherlands, Extinction Rebellion will organise various actions in Belgium and the Netherlands. "We do this to denounce the fact that climate activists are disproportionately punished while the real climate criminals walk free," the organisation says.

Three Just Stop Oil activists stuck themselves to the protective glass of Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring in The Hague. The three activists were each given sentences of two months in prison, one of which was suspended.

"We consider this to be a disproportionate sentence that is clearly aimed at deterring climate activists, which constitutes an unacceptable attack on democratic space," the group said. "While the activists' action was provocative, it was strictly non-violent and did not damage the painting. In solidarity with the activists, the photographer and the thousands of oppressed activists worldwide, Extinction Rebellion will continue to occupy public space. We are not going to be stopped by judges who do not recognise peaceful civil disobedience". 

Where and when the climate activists will strike, was not revealed.

(TOM)

^{© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}