The urgency to address the global climate crisis has given rise to radical climate activist groups across Europe. One such group, Letzte Generation (Last Generation), has been at the forefront of climate advocacy in Germany. Despite facing public backlash and ongoing investigations, the members of Letzte Generation remain undeterred in their mission to combat the climate crisis and demand immediate action from the government.
Letzte Generation emerged in August 2021 as a new climate group dedicated to ensuring a viable future for the planet. Their initial major action involved a hunger strike by seven determined activists who called for a public conversation on climate with the candidates vying to succeed Angela Merkel as Chancellor. While a meeting was eventually secured with the current Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, the activists were left dissatisfied with his proposed climate plan.
Letzte Generation has gained attention through their unconventional tactics, including organizing marches and rallies, blockading roadways, defacing public monuments, and even throwing mashed potatoes at a famous painting by Claude Monet. These actions, aimed at drawing attention to the urgency of the climate crisis, have divided public opinion and provoked heated reactions. While some argue that such methods are necessary to spur change, others have expressed frustration and even resorted to violence against the activists.
Tensions between climate protesters and law enforcement have escalated not only in Germany but across Europe as well. The German police conducted raids on Letzte Generation’s properties in May 2023 as part of an ongoing investigation. The group is suspected of forming a criminal organization, and if charges and convictions follow, the penalties could include up to five years in prison. However, the activists believe that the investigation is an attempt by the government to suppress peaceful protest against inadequate climate action.
In an interview with TIME magazine, Melanie Guttmann, one of the co-founders of Letzte Generation, shared her journey towards becoming a climate activist and the motivations behind her actions. Guttmann’s realization of the severity of the climate crisis and the government’s inaction compelled her to take a stand and create Last Generation. She discussed the group’s demands, which include the establishment of a citizens assembly to develop an actionable plan for achieving emission-free status by 2030.
While many international climate negotiations focus on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Letzte Generation asserts that the timeframe is too late to prevent catastrophic consequences. Based on scientific evidence, the group argues that emission-free status must be achieved by 2030 to avert further climate-related disasters. Guttmann emphasized that the physical reality does not allow for compromises, and decisive action is needed to protect lives and prevent global social collapse.
Despite the potential legal consequences and personal hardships they face, the members of Letzte Generation remain committed to their cause. Guttmann expressed her fear of imprisonment but emphasized that the climate crisis has already shattered the dreams she once held dear for her future. With a profound sense of duty and an unwavering determination, she and her fellow activists continue to fight for a climate-safe world, even if it means sacrificing their own freedom.
Letzte Generation represents a new breed of climate activists who are willing to push the boundaries to address the looming climate crisis. Through their unconventional tactics and demands for immediate action, they have sparked debates and divided public opinion. While the group faces investigations and potential legal consequences, their unwavering commitment highlights the urgency to combat the climate crisis.
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