Quaker cases highlighted in international call to protect environmental protesters

Gaie Delap, a 78-year-old retired teacher and lifelong Quaker, was sentenced to 20 months for participating in a peaceful climate protest by climbing onto gantries over the M25. Her case has been highlighted in an international statement criticizing the UK’s treatment of environmental defenders. The statement, submitted by Environment Links UK (ELUK) to a meeting of countries that have signed the Aarhus Convention, accuses the UK of breaching its international obligations by penalizing individuals who act peacefully to protect the environment.

The statement warns that new laws and heavy sentences are having a “chilling effect” on public participation and non-violent protest. Quakers, whose faith leads them to take peaceful action to protect the environment, have been particularly affected by these laws. Quakers in Britain are among the organizations supporting the statement. ELUK also cites the unfounded prosecutions of environmental activities, including those opposing the Drax Power Station.

In September, a court dismissed charges against 15 climate protesters, including four Quakers, who were accused of planning to lock on at the power station in August 2024. The UK is the only country in western Europe to have its civic freedom classed as “obstructed” by Civicus. The ELUK statement notes that the UK’s long tradition of respect for peaceful protest and non-violent civil disobedience has dramatically changed in recent years.

The UN’s Special Rapporteur on Environmental Defenders, Michel Forst, has also criticized the UK’s approach, stating that long prison sentences and civil injunctions against protesters breach the Aarhus Convention. Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain, emphasized that conscience-led, peaceful protest is essential in a healthy democracy. He noted that when those acting from love and moral conviction are punished, it raises serious questions about justice.

ELUK, which represents more than 8 million members across UK conservation and environmental groups, is calling on the government to reverse recent anti-protest laws and to end the use of sweeping injunctions against campaigners. The UK government maintains its commitment to the Aarhus Convention and has no plans to withdraw. On Saturday, 15 November, at 12 noon, all are invited to join Faith for the Climate and others opposite Downing Street, calling for the government to reject Rosebank and stand in solidarity with those most affected by climate change and environmental defenders everywhere.

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