Anti-Whaling Activist Paul Watson Seeks Political Asylum In France To Avoid Possible Extradition To Japan
Paul Watson, the founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, an anti-poaching and direct action group focused on marine conservation activism, has requested political asylum in France to avoid possible extradition to Japan.
Watson, who has been held in Greenland since July, made a direct request to President Emmanuel Macron through his Captain Paul Watson Foundation, seeking asylum from serious legal threats.
Watson, 73, was arrested after his ship arrived in Nuuk, Greenland, on July 21. He was detained after Japan filed an international warrant for his arrest over a decade ago.
The charges against him include breaking into a Japanese vessel in the Antarctic in 2010 and causing harm and property damage while disrupting its operations. If extradited and convicted in Japan, he could face up to 15 years in prison.
His detention has been extended until October 23 while Danish authorities review Japan’s extradition request.
Watson denies the claims against him, stating that they are politically motivated because of his long-standing opposition to Japanese whaling practices, which are banned by an international treaty from 1986.
Sea Shepherd France reports that Watson’s letter was recently delivered to Macron. The organization said Macron has previously expressed support for Watson, citing the importance of his case for environmental campaigns and human rights.
Watson, described as “down” and “isolated,” is currently being held in Greenland’s detention facilities.
Lamya Essemlali, president of Sea Shepherd France, said that Watson has a deep connection to France, which has the world’s second-largest marine territory, making it a crucial player in ocean conservation efforts.
Jean Tamalet, a lawyer associated with Sea Shepherd France, stated that Watson’s asylum request is solely symbolic, intended to prompt his release rather than ensure his protection from extradition.
Critics believe Watson’s arrest is related to Japan’s cultural claims over its whaling practices, which continue to face international criticism. Watson has long been at the forefront of disputes with whaling ships in the Southern Ocean.
References: Reuters, AP News
Marine Insight Academy
Online courses for the Maritime industry!
Enroll For Maritime Courses
- 100 + Free & Premium Courses
- Learn at your own speed
- Earn certificates on completing Premium Courses
- Quizes to evaluate your knowledge
- Interactive videos
Marine Insight Academy
Enroll For Maritime Courses
- 100 + Free & Premium Courses
- Learn at your own speed
- Earn certificates on completing Premium Courses
- Quizes to evaluate your knowledge
- Interactive videos
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
About Author
Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.
Related Articles
- In A First, EU Sanctions Chinese Firms Supplying Drones & Military Equipment To Russia
- Watch: Cargo Fire On Freighter In Canary Islands Contained After 2 Days Of Firefighting
- Barge Runs Aground Near French Coast After Breaking Tow In Storm Darragh
- Tug Saves Product Tanker From Drifting Aground Off Brittany Coast Amidst Storm Durragh
Related Articles
Daily Maritime News, Straight To Your Inbox
Sign Up To Get Daily Newsletters
Join over 60k+ people who read our daily newsletters
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT