More shrinking spaces? Climate protest under siege?

Session Submission Type: Roundtable Discussion

Abstract

The shrinking civic space for climate protest is a growing concern in many parts of the world. Climate activists have long been at the forefront of advocating for urgent action to combat climate change, but their ability to voice their concerns and mobilize for change is increasingly under threat.
Governments have implemented restrictive laws and regulations that curtail the rights of citizens to assemble, express their opinions, and engage in peaceful protests. These measures are often justified in the name of national security or public order, but they are frequently used to suppress dissent and stifle environmental activism.
The demands of climate activists often threaten the economic interests of companies and industries, leading to fierce backlashes, such as slapps and all over the globe Climate change has become a polarized issue, leading to a strong political divide in which climate activists are often seen as enemies. In many cases, climate activists face intimidation, harassment, and even violence for their efforts to draw attention to the climate crisis. Their digital spaces, too, are not immune to restrictions, with governments monitoring online activities and curtailing the use of social media platforms to organize and mobilize.
The roundtable wants to discuss current developments of repression but also efforts to safeguard the space for climate activism including advocacy, legal challenges, and international solidarity.

References

Moderation: Dr Rupert Graft Strachwitz (Maecenata Foundation)
Discussants: Prof. Ruth Simsa (University Vienna)
Dr. Siri Hummel (Maecenata Institut, Berlin)
MA Bertram Lang (University Frankfurt)

Sub Unit

• The Third Sector, sustainable development, climate change, and climate justice

Discussants

• Ruth Simsa, Vienna University of Economics and Business

• Bertram Lang, University of Göttingen

• Siri Hummel, Maecenata Institute

Moderator

• Rupert Graf Strachwitz, Maecenata Institute, Berlin, Germany