Once the biggest youth movement of our time, Fridays for Future is in crisis, and Greta Thunberg with the Palestinian scarf is just part of the problem. How can things continue?
The marriage is over. The moment when more than 100,000 people demonstrated for climate protection in Austria in 2019. But that is not the reason for the crisis in which Fridays for Future (FFF) finds itself.
There have been allegations of anti-Semitism against parts of the movement for years. But since figurehead Greta Thunberg took a stance against Israel and FFF International accounts published corresponding content, “Fridays” have been in their deepest crisis.
“It’s not the best time to be an activist”
Representatives in Austria fight for the borders – and for their movement. What happens next is unclear. “It’s not the best time to be an activist,” says Daniel Shams. He is currently one of the speakers in Austria – and finds himself in the middle of a shit storm. “We have taken a clear stand against anti-Semitism.” However, this theme now overshadows everything.
“It’s painful to watch,” says Johannes Stangl. He was involved in founding the FFF in Austria. Today he only contributes there selectively. Today he conducts research at the Complexity Science Hub and is involved with Scientists for Future. And he is disappointed.
Damage that is difficult to repair
“It’s clear that Greta Thunberg has let a lot of people down, she has done damage to the reputation of the entire climate movement that will be very difficult to repair.”