Copenhagen (Denmark) 14 January 2025 (SPS)- In the early hours of January 13, 2025, the Copenhagen office of Global Aktion, a Danish NGO dedicated to international solidarity, was the target of a Molotov cocktail attack. The incident, which caused extensive property damage, is being investigated as an act of politically motivated arson.
The attack unfolded at the organization's premises on Wesselsgade in Nørrebro, a vibrant neighborhood in Copenhagen. Graffiti messages, including phrases such as “The Sahara belongs to Morocco,” “Stop supporting terrorism,” “Morocco,” and “Fuck Polisario,” were spray-painted on the pavement outside. Though blurred by frost and water, the slogans reflect a clear Moroccan political message tied to Global Aktion's advocacy for the self-determination of Western Sahara.
Residents in the apartments above the NGO's office were evacuated during the night. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Morten Nielsen, Global Aktion's policy and campaign coordinator, expressed relief that the attack, though severe, did not result in casualties.
“Our main thoughts today are still with the Saharawi people, who have been suffering from the Moroccan occupation, harassment, and intimidation for five decades,” Nielsen said.
The office, however, was completely ravaged. All technical equipment, including computers and documents, has been rendered unusable, severely hampering the organization’s operations.
Global Aktion is deeply involved in supporting people-driven movements in the Global South, with a focus on economic, democratic, and social rights. Its outspoken advocacy for the independence of Western Sahara—a territory occupied by Morocco since 1975—has previously made it a target for demonstrations and threats. However, this marks the first instance of violent escalation.
“This attack is a direct response to our work for the Saharawi people's rights. It’s deeply shocking, and we are still processing the extent of the damage. But we will not be silenced,” stated Nielsen. He emphasized the gravity of such violence in Denmark, where political arson attacks are rare.
The attack has sparked widespread condemnation and solidarity. Danish Parliament members Rosa Lund and Sascha Faxe both decried the act, with Faxe suggesting that, if politically motivated, the incident could qualify as an act of terrorism. “It’s dangerous for our democracy when political disagreements turn violent,” Faxe stated.
From Norway, Saharawi activist Asria Taleb called it “an attack on democracy, society, and civil movements.” Social media platforms have been inundated with messages of support for Global Aktion, underscoring the NGO's pivotal role in raising awareness about human rights issues in Western Sahara.
Copenhagen police have launched an intensive investigation, emphasizing that all leads are being pursued. While no suspects have been named publicly, the political nature of the graffiti points to Moroccan nationalist motives. Authorities are examining the possibility of foreign influence in the planning and execution of the attack.
Despite the destruction, the NGO is determined to continue its mission. “We are receiving offers to help us find a new location and replace our equipment. The support we’re receiving is overwhelming,” shared Nielsen.
He also highlighted the broader implications of the incident: “If this attack was meant to intimidate us or silence our support for Western Sahara, it has only strengthened our resolve. We remain committed to our cause.”
This incident marks an unprecedented level of political violence in Denmark, a country known for its stable democracy and civil liberties. It has raised alarms about the risks faced by advocacy groups and the increasing polarization of international issues within Danish society.
As the investigation continues, calls for solidarity and justice grow louder. Advocates stress the need to protect organizations like Global Aktion, which amplify marginalized voices and challenge oppressive systems. For now, the flames of violence have only rekindled their commitment to the Saharawi people and the cause of justice worldwide. (SPS)
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