“Last Generation” Praised for Meeting with Minister, but Protests to Continue

Wissing: Consensus and no division

A spokesperson for the Transport Ministry described the meeting as “a factual exchange of views”. “To achieve our climate goals, we need social consensus and no division. This consensus must be developed through democratic means and should not be enforced through violence”. Politics should not be directed against people. “We need to offer citizens attractive and accepted mobility options that are affordable”.

Wissing had previously stated that while it was important to speak with the protestors, there would be no negotiations or agreement following the meeting. In an interview with Deutschlandfunk, he reiterated his criticism of the street blockades, stating, “I have zero tolerance and understanding for criminal acts. This is not a means of expression. It must be prosecuted with the full extent of the law.” He criticized the climate activists’ demands as not constructive. “The arguments of the ‘Last Generation’ do not convince me”.

Verdicts against several activists

The “Last Generation” is known for its activists gluing themselves to roads or even airfields to obstruct traffic. There were numerous blockades in Berlin shortly before the meeting, with almost 500 police officers deployed. This caused significant disruption and traffic congestion.

Since April 19, the “Last Generation” have reinforced their protests in Berlin, with the police recording 80 street blockades since last Friday. Several hundred police officers have been deployed daily, resulting in the initiation of 708 criminal proceedings and 431 administrative offense proceedings so far. Several activists have already been convicted in court.