Just Stop Oil Activists Appeal 41-Year Sentences in London

On January 30 and 31, 2025, hundreds of climate activists, including celebrities, protested outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London in support of 16 Just Stop Oil activists appealing their prison sentences, which total over 41 years for nonviolent protests against fossil fuels. The activists argue their sentences, ranging from 15 months to 5 years, are excessive and label themselves as 'political prisoners' fighting for climate justice. Legal representatives for the appellants, including Danny Friedman KC, assert that the harsh penalties reflect a broader political oppression against climate activism. Supporters, including environmental organizations like Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace, contend that silencing activists poses a serious threat to democracy by hindering necessary discourse on climate issues. The Court of Appeal is hearing the case, with judges considering whether the sentences were justified given the activists' motivations and actions. The protests, described as peaceful and aimed at raising awareness, occurred amid heightened tensions surrounding anti-protest laws enacted by the previous Conservative government.