A group of Austrian climate activists, known for attacking a Klimt masterpiece and frequently obstructing roads, announced on Tuesday the cessation of their protest activities. Last Generation Austria expressed their frustration over the lack of response from the government to their demands, citing challenges such as ignorance, death threats, and substantial fines. The group lamented the Austrian government's lack of action on climate issues, stating, "We no longer see any prospect of success."
Over the past two years, the group has garnered significant attention by blocking streets and vandalizing a protective screen over Gustav Klimt's 'Death And Life' at Vienna's Leopold Museum. They also participated in protests that disrupted airport traffic across Europe shortly after the EU's climate monitor recorded the highest global daily average temperature of 17.15 Celsius. Additionally, they advocated for the inclusion of climate protection as a fundamental right in the Austrian constitution.
The Austrian conservative People's Party (OeVP) welcomed the end of what it termed an "extremist group," which comprised around 280 activists. The OeVP emphasized that Austrian streets are not a lawless zone and that there is no right to engage in sabotage. Chancellor Karl Nehammer expressed his view that making daily commutes and work journeys more difficult was a misguided approach. He reiterated that no cause justifies breaking the law.
However, the group was equally critical of Austrian leadership, accusing them of perpetuating a state of "fossil ignorance" that contributes to global harm. Despite ending their protests in Austria, the group informed AFP that they would continue to raise awareness about climate change in Germany.
