Shortly after the scheduled time, at 1 p.m., the march began in central Stockholm. The demonstration included participants of all ages, the youngest in strollers, the elderly with the support of canes or poles.
We believe that this is a record in Swedish history in the number of organizations in a climate demonstration, says Hedvig Schylander from the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation.
The Swedish Society for Nature Conservation says that around 50,000 people are taking part in the march. The purpose of the demonstration is to show that there is widespread support for stronger climate policy.
A variety of organizations
In addition to climate organizations, the march includes trade unions, religious communities, researchers, dancers and musicians. Some have dressed up as clowns, children are wearing animal costumes and even folk musicians are taking part. Some of the participants have cycled from southern Sweden and have been on the road all week. Others came by train from Gällivare.
There is incredible commitment around the country and people are coming from over 70 different locations. The atmosphere is so determined, says Hedvig Schylander, climate expert at the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation.
Among the signs in the march are messages such as "Animals are best, no protest" and "Turn your coat to the right wind instead."
“Must act”
One of those taking part is Alexandra Drotz Ruh, along with her daughter Billie:
"I think it's absolutely terrible what awaits us, but especially future generations. We have to act," she says.
A representative of that particular generation is 16-year-old Lily Kjellberg, who is also taking part:
We as children may not be able to do much at the parliamentary or global level to save the climate, but I want to be here and show what we stand for and what we think, she says.
