Anti-nuclear protestors might range from opposing nuclear weapons to opposing nuclear activities more broadly, including nuclear power and other civilian uses of nuclear technology. Protests can be motivated by a wide range of factors, such as environmental damage and disaster response. The depth of understanding about nuclear technologies among publics also varies widely – and events such as the Chernobyl and Fukushima Daiichi disasters have had a significant impact on public perceptions.

Protests may take place in the form of a march or camp, and protestors might seek to gain attention for their cause through media (e.g. newspapers, social networks). Demonstrations can and do also occur near or at nuclear sites.

For example, in November 2011 protestors delayed a train transporting radioactive waste from France to Germany. They damaged the train tracks and slowed down the train’s journey significantly. Later that year, environmental activists broke into Nogent-sur-Seine Nuclear Power Plant in northern France. They were able to access the reactor building roof with a banner. At the same time, two other campaigners breached the perimeter of the Cruas Nuclear Power Plant in the south of the country, broadcasting their protest undetected for half a day.

These acts of breach and sabotage can highlight security weaknesses at nuclear facilities. In addition, if managed incorrectly they can draw attention away from other security operations thus providing external or internal adversaries with opportunity to commit malicious acts.

Further Reading:

Ruedig, W., 'Protest movements against nuclear energy and the British state', Strathclyde Papers on Government and Politics, No. 74, Strathclyde University, 1990

France24, 'Greenpeace stunt at French nuclear plant revives debate', 5 December 2011