Around 200 environmental activists, including the renowned Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, staged a direct action at the Mongstad refinery, the largest in Norway, on Monday to demand the progressive abandonment of oil and gas.
The protest was organized by the Extinction Rebellion movement, which blocked the land and sea access to the industrial complex located in Bergen, southwest of the country.
“There is no future in oil. Fossil fuels lead to death and destruction,” Thunberg stated in a press release. “Producers like Norway have blood on their hands.”
Land and sea blockade: coordinated action against Equinor
From 07:00 GMT on August 18, the Norwegian police remained on-site overseeing the protest, which included:
- Activists sitting on the road blocking vehicle access
- Kayaks and sailboats preventing port access
- Announcement of new demonstrations throughout the week in different Norwegian cities
The Mongstad refinery belongs to Equinor, a company mostly controlled by the Norwegian State, and is a symbol of the fossil energy model that activists are challenging.
Norway under pressure: demands for a fair energy transition
The protesters demand authorities to develop a concrete plan to abandon oil and gas, in line with international climate commitments. Norway, the largest European hydrocarbon producer, defends its industry as a source of:
- Employment and technical expertise
- Stable energy supply for Europe
- Projected production until 2035:
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- 1.2 million barrels of oil per day
- 40 billion cubic meters of gas annually
International solidarity: Greta Thunberg announces new flotilla to Gaza
In parallel to her climate activism, Greta Thunberg announced on Instagram a new action of international solidarity: the launch of a humanitarian flotilla to Gaza, scheduled for August 31 from Spain, with the support of pro-Palestinian activists.
“It will be the largest attempt to break the illegal siege on Gaza, with dozens of ships sailing from Spain and Tunisia,” the statement reads.
The campaign aims to mobilize over 44 countries in simultaneous actions and solidarity demonstrations with the Palestinian people.
Freedom Flotilla: background and repression
On June 8, Greta Thunberg was part of the Freedom Flotilla, which attempted to deliver symbolic aid to Gaza.
The ship Madleen, with 12 activists on board, was intercepted by Israeli forces. Four of them, including Thunberg, agreed to be deported after detention.
Global activism: between climate collapse and international justice
Greta Thunberg’s recent actions reflect an intersectional activism agenda, linking the climate crisis, energy transition, and international solidarity.
From Norway to Gaza, her message challenges governments, companies, and citizens about the urgency of building a fair, sustainable, and violence-free future.
