Hollywood stars rally against Denmark following arrest of whale activist Paul Watson in Greenland

Every day, a new Hollywood star joins the chorus of critics against Denmark following the arrest of controversial whale activist Paul Watson in Greenland last Sunday. Actors Pierce Brosnan, filmmaker James Cameron, and musician Bryan Adams are among the latest to spotlight the issue, urging Denmark to release Watson, who has fought against whaling for decades.

Jonas Christoffersen, a top Danish attorney now representing Watson, emphasizes the political implications of the case. “I believe Denmark should carefully consider the consequences of this situation,” he stated. Japan’s interest in Watson seems to focus more on his future activism rather than the charges he faces stemming from a 2010 incident in Antarctica. The Japanese authorities have accused him of “burglary, property damage, obstruction of business, and personal injury,” according to their Justice Ministry.

Christoffersen argues that the gravity of the case has been inflated by Japan, stating, “This case is being exaggerated to a level it cannot sustain, and that’s what we must now explain to the Danish government.” Watson is charged with actions against the whaling ship Nisshin Maru, deemed a “floating slaughterhouse” by activists.

The Nisshin Maru has since been decommissioned, but Japan has introduced a new vessel, the Kangei Maru, poised for future whaling activities. Watson, speaking from the deck of the activists’ ship before his arrest, outlined his intention to blockade this new ship and halt its operations.

The Danish Foreign Ministry now faces the challenge of balancing diplomatic relations with Japan, the interests of Greenland and the Faroe Islands, and the potential implications for Denmark’s international reputation. The final decision on Watson’s extradition will rest with the Justice Ministry.