Vienna Regional Court Expands 'Last Generation' Climate Activist Trial to Nearly 50 Defendants

Trial Against 'Last Generation' Activists Grows in Vienna

The extensive legal proceedings against activists from the climate group 'Last Generation' at the Vienna Regional Court have expanded, with additional defendants joining the case. What began with 42 individuals now includes five more, bringing the total number of defendants to nearly 50. The proceedings are primarily focused on charges of serious property damage and other related offenses.

Charges and Dropped Accusations

The initial group of 42 defendants faced accusations of serious property damage. With the addition of five more individuals, the total number of those facing trial has reached 47. Court spokeswoman Christina Salzborn confirmed that cases from other courts have been transferred and consolidated into this proceeding. While investigations had previously considered the suspicion of forming a criminal organization, this accusation has since been dropped, with authorities stating that 'the facts at hand did not meet the criteria.' However, one activist among the main defendants also faces charges for resisting state authority and serious bodily harm.

Logistical Challenges and Protest Context

The sheer scale of the trial presents significant logistical challenges for the Vienna Regional Court. The proceedings are expected to involve more than 20 summoned witnesses, a prosecutor, a juvenile judge, and five defense attorneys, alongside numerous media representatives. Further complicating matters, the large jury courtroom is currently unavailable due to renovation work. The charges stem from a series of disruptive protests, notably in November 2023, when activists used a sand-superglue mixture to cement themselves onto major roadways, including the Vienna Ring and the Southern Motorway (A2). Other actions listed in indictments include paint-throwing incidents.

Group's Stance and Dissolution in Austria

A trial date for the expanded proceedings is still pending. Marina Hagen-Canaval, a former spokesperson for 'Last Generation,' has publicly described the trial as 'a farce,' asserting that the charges serve 'only to deter civic engagement.' It is noteworthy that the Austrian branch of 'Last Generation' announced its dissolution in August 2024, citing a perceived lack of success and 'fossil ignorance' within Austria. Despite this, the group indicated that resistance would continue in unspecified new forms.