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Extinction Rebellion announces move away from disruptive tactics in 2023

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London, UK
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Ubiquitously known climate group Extinction Rebellion is shifting away from drastic action like roadblocks and public defacement, and towards a more diplomatic emphasis – the group has announced.Β 

Despite our pressing need for stricter ecological policies every year in the run up to 2030, Extinction Rebellion is opting for a change of tact in 2023.Β 

You’ll recall that from summer last year, stretching right up to 2022’s twilight months, the globally recognised activist group drasticallyΒ ramped up its civil displays of anger in the UK – as did several others including Just Stop Oil.Β 

From public defacement of famous art installations and disruption of traffic-heavy areas, to vandalising the buildings of fossil fuel associates and interrupting debates in parliament, it was a busy year in which eco outfits really showed theirΒ mettle.

While tabloid headlines cropped up what felt like weekly, constant debate raged about whether radical methods like this are effective, or deemed too contrived and performative by the public.Β 

A poll conducted by YouGov suggested the latter rings true, with more participants disliking Extinction Rebellion than those championing its protests.Β 

While many wouldΒ argue that climate activism, and activism in general, is never about popularity, Extinction Rebellion has decided to take a proactive move awayΒ from controversial acts in 2023 regardless.Β 

Admitting the decision is a controversial one – given Extinction Rebellion largely paved the way for such demonstrations – a group spokesperson vowed to β€˜prioritise attendance over arrests and relationships over roadblocks,’ in a January post titled β€˜We Quit’.Β 

Describing itsΒ diplomatic shift of emphasis as a β€˜necessary approach,’ this may be primarily in response to tougher legal restrictions brought about in 2022. Β 

Specifically, updates to the UK Public Order Bill now classifies β€˜interfering with key national infrastructure’ and to β€˜repeatedly inflict disruption on the public,’ as crimes punishable byΒ prison sentences.Β 

β€˜In a time when speaking out and taking action are criminalised, building collective power, strengthening in number, and thriving through bridge-building is a radical act,’ the group said.

The document mentions halting public transport networks, disrupting fuel suppliers, and preventing people from getting to work as keyΒ offences and claimsΒ that police will be far stricter against β€˜non peaceful’ protests. How that pans out in practice exactly, we’re very curious to see.Β 

It appears we won’t have to wait long either, as plansΒ to gather 100,000 people for a demonstration at the Houses of Parliament are underway and slated for April 21.Β 

There’s still been no word from Insulate Britain or Just Stop Oil on whether they intend to follow suit by placing greater emphasis on dialogue over disruption.Β 

There will be those, no doubt including huge portions of Gen Z, worried that a lack of radical action in the coming year may heighten a sense of apathy among folk at such a vital stage.Β 

The truth remains that the only thing that will truly quell the desire of climate activists, is unprecedented efforts to transition away from fossil fuels. Failing that, regardless of heightened consequences, PR stunts will continue.Β 

Tech Editor London, UK

I’m Jamie (He/Him), the Editor in Chief at Thred. Keeping up with gaming and revolutionary technology is my forte, but when away from my keyboard, you’ll probably find me wrapped around a large Tango ice blast at the latest mediocre horror flick. Follow me on Twitter, LinkedIn and drop me some ideas/feedback viaΒ email.

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