Statement from Environmental Defenders Office Chief Executive Officer David Morris:
“The EDO is deeply apprehensive about corporations in Australia and globally targeting people who participate in protests, including protests calling for stronger action on the climate crisis.
“Corporations would do well to consider the impact their actions have on the very foundations of open and democratic society.
“We see a trend in corporations attempting to identify, surveil, and selectively target protestors — actions that potentially infringe their basic rights.
“These actions not only victimise individual citizens, they have a chilling effect on the right of peaceful protest in society more generally.
“Peaceful protest is a cornerstone of democratic societies. It gives those without power a vital opportunity to have their voices heard and to advocate for positive change.”
REFERENCES
Woodside Energy threatens legal action against climate activists over Perth stink-bomb protest, ABC, 27-7-23.
MEDIA CONTACT: James Tremain | 0419 272 254
