Faroe Islands remain silent on extradition of environmental activist Paul Watson amid growing support from EU politicians and celebrities

The Faroe Islands have remained largely silent regarding the case of imprisoned environmental activist Paul Watson, whom Japan is seeking to extradite based on a 2012 arrest warrant. However, as support for the 73-year-old Canadian activist has grown among various EU politicians, members of the Danish Parliament, Hollywood celebrities, and notably French President Emmanuel Macron, the debate has intensified. Sjúrður Skaale, a member of the Faroe Islands’ Parliament, has criticized this portrayal of Watson as a hero, calling it “completely absurd.”

Currently detained in Greenland, Watson has spent decades campaigning against whaling and is seen by many as a guardian of whales, fighting against illegal hunting that the international community supports but fails to effectively halt. Recently, the lead singer of the French metal band Gojira announced plans to travel to Denmark to advocate for Watson’s release as a “global environmental hero.”

Japan accuses Watson of “property damage” and “obstruction of business” relating to incidents involving a Japanese vessel in Antarctica in February 2010. The activist has also long targeted the Faroe Islands’ legal pilot whale hunts, claiming he has acted aggressively, including damaging whaling ships.

Although 650 pilot whales are legally caught annually in the Faroe Islands, the decision regarding Watson’s potential extradition lies with Denmark’s Ministry of Justice, which must determine whether he goes to Japan or faces a judge in the realm. Skaale insists that releasing Watson is not an option, asserting that he should face legal proceedings for his actions.

The Faroese government is reportedly exploring the possibility of seeking Watson’s extradition, but this has not been officially confirmed. Meanwhile, Omar Todd of The Paul Watson Foundation has criticized the actions of Faroese politicians as “comical,” suggesting they are pressuring Denmark unjustly. Watson has a 2023 ban against sailing within 12 nautical miles of the Faroese coast, which he violated, resulting in a fine, highlighting the complex dynamics of these ongoing disputes.