UK: Climate activists likely to stage further daily demonstrations in London through July /update 2

Event

Climate activists led by Just Stop Oil (JSO) will likely continue daily demonstrations in London through at least July. The purpose of the actions is to pressure the government to stop all investments in fossil fuels.

Protests have occurred nearly daily since April 24. On Saturdays, demonstrators have gathered at Parliament Square in Whitehall. Protesters have caused and are likely to continue to cause disruptions to roadways, including during morning peak-hour traffic in central London. Protest action has also occurred near tube stations and businesses with perceived poor environmental practices. Each localized event is likely to draw a handful to a few dozen activists. Larger demonstrations, including those at Parliament Square, could attract a few hundred people.

In recent days, the Just Stop Oil group has also disrupted high-profile events, including England’s cricket test match against Australia on June 28, and London’s annual Pride parade on July 1. Further protests at national and international events are likely.

Police will likely deploy to all actions and attempt to prevent or disperse demonstrations that are likely to cause significant disruption. However, JSO organizers deliberately attempt to cause maximum disruption by communicating protest details at short notice over private channels, and activists often glue or otherwise physically attach themselves to road surfaces to prevent police from removing them. As a result, disruption tends to be unpredictable and instant, and actions can last for several hours. Clashes are unlikely as JSO advocates non-violent civil disobedience; however, there have previously been instances of scuffles with frustrated commuters, and some activists may engage in acts of vandalism as part of their demonstrations.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Check trusted local media sources for up-to-date information on demonstrations in the coming days. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions before beginning journeys; allow extra time to reach destinations in central London during the protest campaign. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.

Resources

City of London Police
Metropolitan Police
Transport for London