Greenpeace activists face prison sentences in Spain

Eleven Greenpeace activists are facing a trial in Valencia, Spain, with prosecutors requesting up to five years in prison for public disorder. The case stems from an October 2021 protest at the port of Sagunto, where activists blocked the anchor of the vessel Esperanza to prevent the docking of the Merchant, a ship carrying 138,000 cubic meters of fossil gas.

During the protest, one activist remained suspended for twelve hours before the Guardia Civil intervened. Greenpeace has noted that this represents the most severe sentencing request ever made against climate activists in Europe. Amnesty International has announced it will directly observe the proceedings. The case has drawn attention to the use of public disorder charges in Spain, which critics argue are being used to penalize environmental demonstrations.