Unexpected outcomes in Berlin

Prior to the ISO meeting I was fortunate enough to be in the City on the Saturday and Sunday and so witnessed both a huge demonstration and direct action against Nuclear Power.  Germany has always been nervous about nuclear and suffered following Chernobyl.  Events in Japan have hit a nerve and Germany was beginning to reconsider its plans.

On the Saturday there were demonstrations across Germany and we were able to witness the Berlin demonstration, which was noisy, orderly and good natured.  It was a mix of people of all ages and backgrounds, judging from direct observation.

On Sunday the Brandenburg Gate was the focus as Greenpeace took over with climbers on the gate and banners displayed in German and English all day.  What I did not apprecaite at the time was that the report on the future of nuclear was being presented to the Chancellor on Sunday.  On Monday morning Germany announced that the oldest nuclear stations would close and that all nuclear would be abolished in Germany in 10 years.  So a disaster in Japan has had a direct impact on German politics, on the energy sector in the biggest European economy and will undoubtedly influence others too.  I don't suppose many of us thought this would be one effect when we first heard of the earthquake in Japan.

Some pictures of the demonstration and action are included in my Gallery.

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