Protests at climate conference: the activists need staying power

The demands of the climate activists are justified – but currently not achievable. The young demonstrators still need a lot of patience. It is thanks to them that they try to push politicians out of their comfort zone.

Are the demands of the Thunbergs of this world justified? Yes. Are they achievable? No. The protest is important and it can be demanding. But it must not arouse the idea that it is just as achievable. That’s not it. And he must not insult and discredit those of all people who are seriously trying to find solutions.

The UN, the climate conference cannot decide what is expected there. Even if all the heads of state and government came here again. What kind of understanding of politics is that? At least for the democratically elected, the following applies: They would have to bring further commitments through the parliaments. In every single country and with majorities.

There is no switch

US President Joe Biden does not even have this support for his insufficient plans – measured against the demands of the demonstrators. And the EU is still wrestling for its Green Deal for a long time. There is no switch that you could just flick, as much as you want it, as much as you need it because of the heating of the earth.

Even in China – where the strong men can do a lot – they reach their limits when they let people sit in the cold for weeks without electricity. And without China, the 1.5 degree limit is hopeless anyway.

It will be a long time

Everyone could do more – and that’s what it can be about: getting the most out of it and pushing politicians out of their comfort zone. It is worth the effort and the commitment of the young people. You can thank them for that. But they have to know that they will still need a lot of staying power – and that “blah” slogans will not be enough.

It took the anti-nuclear movement decades to succeed. I hear the angry reply: “We don’t have the time!” But what is the alternative? John Kerry, the US climate envoy and a committed climate politician, said in Glasgow: The alternative is to put your hands on your lap and give it up. It really isn’t!