Dec. 2, 2024, Nuuk, Greenland – In a dystopian reality, Captain Paul Watson, who has dedicated his life to protecting the oceans, stepped out of a police vehicle in freezing temperatures, greeted by the songs of “Happy Birthday” from his supporters and colleagues. He was only able to give a few brief words before he was quickly ushered into the courtroom—an all-too-familiar scene that felt like Groundhog Day. When will there be progress?
Once again, Judge Lars-Christian Sinkbæk decided to extend Captain Paul Watson’s remand, this time to December 18, 2024. The defense successfully argued for the hearing to be moved to two weeks instead of the initially proposed December 30, emphasizing the urgency of a resolution. The court is still awaiting a decision from the Ministry of Justice regarding the grounds for Watson’s extradition to Japan.
“In court today, there was a promising sign that within the next 14 days, the Minister of Justice will make a decision on Captain Paul Watson’s extradition, which we hope will end his over four-month-long unjust detention. We urge the Minister to deny Japan’s extradition request, which is driven by revenge rather than justice.” Omar Todd, CEO CPWF
Jonas Christoffersen, Watson’s defense attorney, expressed frustration over the ongoing delays: “We are disappointed that the Danish authorities have taken so long. We very much hope that the Minister of Justice will reject the extradition request so Paul can be home with his family before Christmas.”
Watson’s detention stems from an Interpol red notice issued by Japan, related to his efforts to disrupt illegal whaling activities in the Antarctic Whale Sanctuary in 2010. His legal team maintains that the charges are politically motivated and designed to silence Watson and intimidate other activists working to expose Japan’s unlawful whaling practices, which have been condemned by the International Court of Justice.
When the judge requested further remarks, Watson seized the opportunity to defend himself, emphasizing the international pressure involved: “The fact is that Japan has threatened Denmark that they will cut a contract on windmills unless they get an extradition. Japan has threatened France that they will drop out of a UN conference and also will impact trade relations unless I get extradited.”
Reflecting on his continued detention, Watson said, “Well, I never thought in July that I’d see my 74th birthday here in this courtroom because in July, I was confident that the evidence and documentation would show and prove that not only was I not involved in any planning or participation in the alleged incident, but that the evidence should have led to my release because I was not involved in any crime. Japan, on the other hand, destroyed the ship and injured crew members with no legal consequences.” We must rise up and fight for our oceans. Support the Captain Paul Watson Foundation and our work today. Donate to ensure that we can continue our mission to protect marine life and advocate for justice.