Climate activists staged protests in Davos, Switzerland, just as the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting began. The demonstrations were aimed at raising awareness about fossil fuel subsidies and climate change. Activists sprayed green paint over Amazon’s temporary base and blocked helicopter landings, causing disruptions on the first day of the meeting.
Greenpeace Leads the Protest
Greenpeace, the environmental organization behind the protests, briefly blocked the heliport in Davos, according to a Reuters report. The group took action to demand a “fair tax on the richest people.” Their goal was to redirect funds towards environmental protection and create a sustainable future for humanity. Demonstrators also daubed orange symbols on the shopfront where Amazon has set up its base on the main street in Davos. They splattered green paint on the glass windows, symbolizing their opposition to the climate policies of major corporations.
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Disrupting Helicopter Arrivals
Around 10 activists blocked two vehicles at the heliport entrance with yellow banners that read “TaxTheSuperRich.” Greenpeace’s Clara Thompson spoke to Reuters, explaining that the group had successfully blocked 10-20 helicopters in an hour. The group expected the disruption to continue throughout the day, anticipating up to a hundred helicopters arriving in the resort. Helicopter landings are a common mode of transportation for high-profile politicians and business leaders attending the WEF.
Tight Security at the WEF
Security has been at its peak during this year’s protest in Davos, the venue of the WEF’s annual meeting. Themes such as “safeguarding the planet” have featured significantly at the meeting this year. Businesses, governments, and civil society need to work together according to the WEF to ensure that climate change is addressed. The protests emphasize the growing strain on the topic of climate change and the roles of global leaders in addressing this issue.
Calls for Action and Change
As the WEF’s discussions continue, climate activists are emphasizing the need for governments and businesses to take decisive action. They believe that protecting the planet and ensuring social equity should be at the forefront of global conversations. As protests have increased in recent years, pressure on leaders to make meaningful changes has intensified.
The 2025 WEF program emphasizes cooperative actions in the battle against climate change and sustainability. Yet, more public demonstrations make it vivid that many are not satisfied with how things are going. Activists are pushing for immediate action, especially on issues like fossil fuel subsidies and wealth inequality.