DAVOS, RAKYAT NEWS – Greenpeace activists staged a brief but impactful protest at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, on January 21, 2025. The demonstration aimed to call attention to the need for taxing the ultra-wealthy in order to fund a fair and sustainable future.

The protest took place just before the official opening of the event, where top political and business leaders gathered for the annual conference.

Three protesters, dressed in dark suits and white shirts, successfully entered the Congress Center and made their way to a balcony overlooking the main lobby. Once there, they unfurled a large banner that read: “Tax the Super-Rich. Fund a Fair and Green Future.”

The banner carried a direct message calling for a shift in economic priorities to address the climate crisis and promote social equity.

Security quickly responded to the situation, escorting the demonstrators out of the area just before the opening ceremony and the keynote speech by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The protest did not disrupt the event significantly, but it drew attention to the issue of wealth inequality and its connection to climate funding.

Sources familiar with the situation revealed that the protestors were not a security threat and that they were legitimate participants at the event. The activists were apparently badge holders, working for one of the event’s service providers, which helped them gain access to the Congress Center without suspicion.

Clara Thompson, a Greenpeace representative, confirmed that the activists were detained by local police following the protest but were later released. When asked how they managed to enter the event, Thompson replied, “They had the means and the way. I can’t say much more.”

The World Economic Forum issued a statement addressing the protest, emphasizing that they “respect the right to peaceful expression.” However, the organization also indicated that they were reviewing the situation while prioritizing the safety and well-being of all participants and staff at the event.

The Greenpeace protest added to the growing momentum of calls for stronger climate action from the corporate world.

The message echoed concerns about wealth inequality and the urgent need for financial contributions to combat climate change, with activists urging the ultra-wealthy to shoulder a greater share of the responsibility for funding climate solutions.

This demonstration followed earlier Greenpeace actions in Davos, including a blockade of the local helipad. The organization has consistently used the WEF platform to push for systemic change and accountability from the world’s economic elite on climate issues.

As the World Economic Forum continued its discussions on global risks and solutions, climate change remained a central topic, with leaders emphasizing the need for bold action. Greenpeace’s protest served as a reminder of the growing pressure for governments and corporations to address the climate crisis in ways that are both fair and sustainable. (Uki Ruknuddin)