Activists in Australia and France Target Ports to Highlight Causes
Activists and Farmers Protest at Ports in France and Australia to Push for Change
French Farmers Protest Against Trade Deal
Ports are becoming a common place for people to protest and make their voices heard. In both France and Australia, activists are using ports to show their disagreement with government decisions and policies.
In France, hundreds of farmers took to the Port of Bordeaux, one of the country’s busiest grain ports, to protest against a European Union (EU) trade deal. This deal, called Mercosur, aims to reduce tariffs for a South American trade group. The farmers worry this agreement will lead to more competition and lower the quality of their products.
The protests involved over 335 farmers and 186 farm machines. They blocked access to the Port of Bordeaux and distribution centers in seven regions in the south and southwest of France. Farmers used trucks to block roads, dumped tires, and scattered debris to create obstacles.
The demonstrations began on the evening of November 20, and farmers demanded either the cancellation of the Mercosur agreement or a renegotiation with better terms. A group called Coordination Rural led these protests, calling it an “agricultural revolt.” Even though the agreement has not been fully approved, farmers are voicing strong opposition.
By the morning of November 22, the farmers decided to open the entrances to the Port of Bordeaux but stated they would continue to protest. They also hinted at possible future actions at the Port of Rouen. Another farmer’s union, the Fédération Nationale des Syndicats d’Exploitants Agricoles (FNSEA), announced further protests next week.
Climate Activists at Australia’s Port of Newcastle
Meanwhile, in Australia, a group of climate activists called Rising Tide began their protest at the Port of Newcastle. This protest, known as the “People’s Blockade,” started on November 22 and is set to continue the next day. Their goal is to block the port for 50 hours as part of a 10-day series of demonstrations mixed with a festival atmosphere.
The activists received a boost when a court in New South Wales ruled that the government’s attempt to set up a blockade zone around the port was not allowed. This decision emphasized the right to peaceful protest, although it also warned that not all actions would be lawful if they endangered port operations.
The NSW Police made it clear they would not tolerate actions that put public safety at risk or interrupted the safe passage of ships. They asked protesters to stay out of the harbor, especially in kayaks or small boats, which could block larger vessels.
Port Of Liverpool Welcomes The UK’s Largest Whole Maize Vessel
In response, activists posted pictures of people in kayaks, canoes, and even on surfboards in the port. Supporters cheered them on from the beach, chanting slogans like “This is what democracy looks like.” The activists are calling for an end to coal exports, the halt of all new fossil fuel projects, and a 78% tax on profits from fossil fuel exports. They want these funds to support clean energy projects and help communities transition to greener industries.
Despite warnings, protesters tried to block large cargo ships, including the Eternal Bliss and the ITG Uming 3, from entering and leaving the port. Police responded using boats and jet skis to move the protesters out of the way. Some activists, like an 84-year-old woman, believe that only direct action will bring attention to their cause.
