FACT: Trespassing can be punished by fine

Climate activist Greta Thunberg appeared in court Wednesday, facing charges related to two separate incidents: an occupation of a University of Copenhagen building on September 4, 2024, and an action against Maersk Tankers on May 13, 2025. Thunberg, along with five other activists, is accused of trespassing and unlawful entry.

The charges are being prosecuted under Section 264 of the Danish Penal Code, which addresses violations of domestic peace. The prosecution is seeking a fine as punishment for the activists. However, Thunberg and her co-defendants maintain their innocence and plan to fight the charges, seeking acquittal.

Specifically, the activists are accused of "unlawfully gaining access to a foreign building or other non-publicly accessible place." In the case of the Maersk Tankers action, Thunberg faces additional charges for failing to leave a foreign area after being asked to do so. The legal proceedings highlight the ongoing tension between environmental activism and legal frameworks, as Thunberg continues to engage in direct action to protest perceived inaction on climate change.