Leipzig, August 01, 2024, The Europe Today: Early Thursday morning, activists from the environmental group Last Generation staged a protest at Leipzig-Halle Airport in eastern Germany, resulting in the suspension of flight operations and disruption of cargo shipments.
According to a spokesperson for the airport, German news agency DPA reported that the protest led to the suspension of flight operations shortly after midnight, affecting both passenger and freight traffic.
Last Generation stated that the protest aimed to halt overnight freight traffic, emphasizing their stance that “this system of destruction cannot be allowed to continue unabated.” In their statement, the group reiterated their call for the German government to “help shape and sign a legally binding international agreement that regulates the global phase-out of oil, gas, and coal by 2030.”
Climate Goals Under Threat
Experts have warned that Germany is unlikely to meet its climate goal of reducing emissions by 65% by 2030. Last Generation’s protest is part of a broader campaign to push for more aggressive action on climate change.
Airport Protests on the Rise
This protest is the latest in a series of actions by Last Generation targeting transportation infrastructure. Last week, members of the group halted numerous flights at Frankfurt Airport, Germany’s largest, and blocked Cologne/Bonn Airport, where they glued themselves to the runway.
A Movement of Urgency
Formed in 2021, Last Generation comprises young activists who believe they are the last generation before the Earth reaches a critical tipping point, leading to irreversible climate breakdown. Their protests are intended to draw urgent attention to the need for immediate and substantial action on climate change.
Government Response
The German government has yet to issue a response to the latest protest. However, the continued actions by Last Generation highlight the growing tension between environmental activists and policymakers over the pace and scope of climate action.
