Extinction Rebellion

Description

Extinction Rebellion, known as XR, is a decentralised, international movement that uses nonviolent direct action and civil disobedience on the climate and ecological emergency.

It was founded in the United Kingdom in 2018, launching with a Declaration of Rebellion outside Parliament in London before spreading worldwide. It asks governments to tell the truth about the climate and ecological emergency, to act now to halt biodiversity loss and cut greenhouse gas emissions to net zero, and to be guided by a citizens’ assembly on climate and ecological justice.

The movement has no central leadership. Any person or local group can organise and take action in its name as long as they follow its shared principles and values, including nonviolence, decentralisation and a regenerative culture that cares for people and the planet. Local and national groups operate autonomously around the world, supported by a global website that connects them.

Beyond direct action, XR runs training for activists and offers ways for supporters to get involved, join a local group or donate. Wings of the movement include groups such as Doctors for XR, XR Youth and Christian Climate Action, each bringing its own community into the wider effort.