EBRD Protests Across The World

The 14th of December was a world wide day of protest against the financing of the K2/R4 nuclear reactors in the Ukraine by the EBRD (European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.)

The headquarters of the EBRD in London were the scene of a noisy protest which lasted for 2 hours. The protest numbered 45 people, two of whom were dressed as 'mutant giants' and gave chase to any banker who left the building. Four banners were displayed reading 'stop K2/R4 no more Chernobyls', 'no EBRD money for nuclear reactors', 'dirty money' and 'mirnym atom ne byvaet' (Russian for 'there is no peaceful atom'.) Over 1500 leaflets were distributed to the people in the bank and the surrounding offices, and the action ended with a die-in and speeches.

While this went on the bank was the subject of a fax and e-mail blockade with people from all over the world writing in to voice their opposition to the bank's plans.

Protests also took place in Tokyo, Australia, the Ukraine, Russia, and across Eastern Europe, including Poland where passers by were offered the iodine drink which was given out by the authorities to protect them from the effects of Chernobyl in 1986.

A spokesman for A SEED Europe observed, : "it would be a grave mistake of the bank to enter into conflict with just about every environmental organisation in Europe"