In London, climate activists protested outside the Royal Courts of Justice. They aimed to raise awareness about the appeal bids of fellow activists facing harsh sentences.

The Strand was closed off as campaigners sat peacefully, holding photos of 16 activists. These activists were appealing their sentences from previous climate protests.
A letter was sent to the Lady Chief Justice, Baroness Carr. The group, Defend Our Juries, stated their protest aimed to highlight issues with democracy and the rule of law, not to cause disruption.
Dozens of police officers were present, but the protest wrapped up around 1:45 PM. The activists involved had received sentences ranging from five years to 15 months for their roles in protests held by Just Stop Oil between August and November 2022.
Lawyers argued that the sentences were too harsh and violated human rights. They believed the judges should have considered the activists’ motivations. However, the Crown Prosecution Service opposed the appeals, insisting that deterrence was necessary to protect the public.
Roger Hallam, a co-founder of Just Stop Oil, received a five-year sentence for his role in disrupting traffic. Other activists, like Daniel Shaw and Louise Lancaster, were sentenced to four years for similar actions.
Some activists were jailed for climbing onto gantries over the M25, while others faced sentences for occupying tunnels leading to an oil terminal. A few even received sentences for throwing soup on a famous painting at the National Gallery.
On Wednesday, the activists’ lawyer argued that their actions were sacrifices for a greater cause. They emphasized that civil disobedience should be viewed differently in court.
The CPS maintained that the sentences were justified, noting many offenders had prior convictions. They argued that the activists acted as part of an organized group, fully aware of the risks involved.
Environmental groups like Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace UK have also intervened, claiming the sentences threaten democracy. The hearing is expected to conclude later today.