Paul Watson's Arrest and the Demonstrations for His Release
On July 21, 2024, Captain Paul Watson, the iconic environmental activist and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation, was arrested by Danish police upon his arrival in Nuuk, Greenland, onboard the M/Y John Paul DeJoria. Paul is also the father of two young children. Danish authorities claimed that the arrest was made due to an international arrest warrant issued by Japan, linked to Watson’s anti-whaling campaigns in the Antarctic over a decade ago. The charges include being an accomplice to assault and ship trespass, both serious offenses under Japanese law. If Paul is extradited to Japan it is likely that any trial will be a “show trial” and a potential “life sentence” for a man of 73 years of age,
The charges stem from a 2010 incident in the Southern Ocean, where members of Sea Shepherd allegedly boarded the Japanese whaling ship Shonan Maru 2. The incident occurred during Sea Shepherd's intense campaign to disrupt Japan's whaling activities, which were conducted under the guise of scientific research. According to Japan’s Ministry of Justice, the statutory penalties for these crimes are severe, with vessel trespassing punishable by up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 100,000 yen (£503.10). The charge of assault carries an even harsher penalty, with a possible sentence of up to 15 years in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 yen (£2,515.50).
Watson's arrest has sparked outrage among environmental activists and supporters worldwide. The move by Danish authorities has been seen by many as an affront to the global movement to protect marine life and a capitulation to Japan’s persistent efforts to punish Watson for his relentless opposition to whaling. As soon as news of his detention broke, a wave of demonstrations began across the world, calling for his immediate release.
One such demonstration took place outside the Danish embassy, where I and other passionate supporters of Watson gathered to apply pressure on the Danish government to release him. The crowd was diverse, united by a shared commitment to environmental justice and a deep admiration for Watson’s decades-long fight to protect marine ecosystems.
The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and determination. Banners and placards carried messages like “Free Paul Watson,” “End the Slaughter”.
The demonstration outside the US Embassy, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Danish Embassy was one of many that took place worldwide, all aimed at drawing attention to Watson’s arrest and the broader issue of whaling. For many, this was not just about freeing one man but about defending the right to stand up against environmental destruction without fear of persecution and fighting for the right to conduct legal direct action.
There was also support from the Hunt Saboteurs Association who for decades has continued to use direct action to stop the illegal hunting of foxes, Stags and many other mammals.
As the campaign to free Paul Watson continues, the hope remains that international pressure will compel the Danish government to release him, allowing him to continue his vital work in defence of the oceans.
Please sign the petition below
https://www.paulwatsonfoundation.org/freepaulwatson/