ST ANDREWS — Researchers at the University of St Andrews published a study in Nature Climate Change finding that the criminalisation of direct action climate protests in the United Kingdom increases activists' determination to undertake disruptive demonstrations. The study, based on a survey of 1,300 climate campaigners, concluded that arrests, fines and lengthy prison sentences imposed on nonviolent protesters who have blocked roads or damaged buildings may radicalise them.

The research found that activists who had been jailed, fined, arrested or surveilled were less fearful of taking part in future disruptive actions. Among campaigners who had not experienced repression, those who felt anger or contempt about the prospect of it expressed stronger intentions to participate in future disruptions, while those whose fear increased had weaker intentions. The emotional response of activists determined their reactions to experienced or anticipated repression.

The study suggested that protest repression could be a driver of covert actions such as cutting internet cables.

"These kinds of actions are counterproductive as they alienate people from the state," said Dr Nicole Tausch, a researcher at the University of St Andrews. "When people start to feel contempt, they tend to feel they don't have to comply to the norms and rules any more. [Repression] might actually radicalise people – if you don't give people the legitimate route to express their discontent, then they will find other routes."

Co-author Sunniva Davies-Rommetveit said the survey results pointed to a shift in tactics. "We're also starting to see different kinds of actions, sabotage for example. [Repression] may possibly be turning people towards more covert types of actions." Describing the response of activists who had faced sanctions, she added: "It was very striking. They feel less fearful and therefore more likely to intend to act disruptively in the future."

Davies-Rommetveit also said: "Policymakers listening to climate activists is probably a good idea, especially as the climate crisis is worsening. Our findings suggest there's definitely frustration with the way the system is dealing with protest at the moment."

Separate research found that 17% of all climate protests between 2019 and 2024 resulted in arrests, compared with an international average of 6.3% over the same period. Some climate protesters were jailed for four years for planning to block a motorway and were denied the ability to present a 'reasonable excuse' defence or climate facts before a jury.

Ministers commissioned an independent review of public order and hate crime legislation to assess whether it is fit for purpose and strikes a fair balance between freedom of expression and the right to protest with the need to prevent disorder and keep communities safe. The review is expected to be published shortly.

"The right to lawful protest is fundamental to our democracy," a Home Office spokesperson said. "However, protests should not cross the line from peaceful demonstration to serious disruption. Existing laws give the police robust powers to manage protests and prevent serious disorder, disruption or intimidation, while protecting the right to peaceful protest."