What Next | Daily News and Analysis Bonus: When the French Bombed Greenpeace
Aug 2, 2025
The podcast dives into the dramatic history of Greenpeace, particularly through the lens of the infamous Rainbow Warrior. It details the bold activism and confrontations that characterized the group's early days. The conversation touches on the morally complex narratives in activism, especially with terms like 'Operation Satanique' highlighting the dark side of corporate interests. Anecdotes about a cherished team member add a personal touch, celebrating community spirit within the newsroom.
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When Governments Turn Hostile
- Environmental activism can provoke severe retaliation from powerful governments.
- When one side names an operation "Operation Satanique," their role as aggressors becomes clear.
Greenpeace's Guerrilla Activism
- Greenpeace in the 70s and 80s acted as a guerrilla activist group with ocean-based protests.
- Their flagship ship, the Rainbow Warrior, confronted whalers and nuclear polluters directly.
Underdog Image Strategy
- Greenpeace designed themselves as lovable underdogs versus big corporate and government powers.
- Their activism targeted nuclear testing and environmental wrongdoers to attract sympathetic public attention.