Paul Watson free, Denmark Stands Firm: Japan’s Extradition Request for Paul Watson Rejected

Denmark has refused Japan’s demand to extradite environmental icon Paul Watson, citing outdated charges and concerns over fairness.

Paul Watson leaves Nuuk prison after 150 days

Copenhagen, December 17, 2024 – The Danish Ministry of Justice has dealt a decisive blow to Japan’s efforts to extradite Paul Watson.The ruling comes after months of legal back-and-forth, ultimately tipping the scales in favour of Watson’s freedom.

In a huge win for the whales and ocean conservation - Captain Paul Watson has been freed from jail after being held for 150 days on flimsy accusations levelled by Japan in relation to Paul's Antarctic campaign of 2010 against Japan's illegal whaling fleet.

Japan was so determined to extradite Paul and convict him with the maximum sentencing - that they had sought his arrest for over 14 years, had sent a delegation to Copenhagen to push for his extradition, and today it was revealed by the Danish Ministry of Justice that Japan would not even agree to deduct the time served in Greenland from any sentencing in Japan.

Paul can now spend Christmas with his wife and two young boys - and can continue his lifelong mission to end whaling forever.

-Rob Read, COO Paul Watson Foundation UK

The case dates back to February 2010, when Watson was accused of offenses against a Japanese ship in the icy waters of Antarctica – a confrontation born from his relentless efforts to defend marine wildlife. Fourteen years later, Japan submitted its formal extradition request on July 30, 2024, seeking Watson’s prosecution. However, the Danish Ministry’s decision sends a clear message: fairness and proportionality matter.

Why Denmark Said “No”

Denmark’s refusal is grounded in a combination of legal and moral considerations:

• Fourteen-Year Gap: The age of the charges significantly weakens their relevance and urgency.

• Detention Concerns: Watson’s extended custody in Greenland while awaiting trial raised major fairness questions.

• No Time Guarantee: Denmark sought assurance that Watson’s time in Greenland detention would count toward any future sentence in Japan. When Japan failed to provide a clear answer, Denmark chose principle over uncertainty.

The Danish Ministry of Justice has decided not to fulfil the request by the authorities of Japan for the extradition of Paul Franklin Watson, cf. Section 15 of the Greenlandic Extradition Act. The decision may not apply to Denmark's own extradition agreement with Japan.

-Rob Read, coo Paul Watson foundation UK

Peter Hummelgaard, Denmark’s Minister of Justice, stood firm in the decision:

"We have made a comprehensive assessment. Given the time Watson would be detained, the age of the charges, and the lack of guarantees regarding time served, we cannot, in good conscience, proceed with extradition. Denmark’s justice system is built on fairness, and this decision reflects that."

The Bigger Picture

The case of Paul Watson has always been more than a legal battle – it’s a story of environmental activism versus powerful interests. Watson, known globally for his daring campaigns to protect marine life, has faced legal challenges for decades, often from nations targeted by his efforts. This latest chapter highlights Denmark’s willingness to uphold fairness, even in the face of diplomatic pressure.

Notably, Hummelgaard addressed external criticisms regarding Japan’s judicial system:

"Denmark respects Japan as a democratic nation guided by the rule of law. This decision is not about questioning Japan’s justice system but ensuring that Watson’s treatment aligns with Denmark’s principles of justice and proportionality."

What’s Next for Watson?

With the extradition request officially denied, Watson’s legal ordeal in Greenland comes to an end – for now. His legal team and supporters are celebrating the victory, while the decision also shines a spotlight on the broader issue of environmental defenders facing international prosecution.

Watson’s dramatic legacy remains intact, and Denmark’s stand may set a precedent for future cases involving environmental justice, national sovereignty, and human rights.

For now, Paul Watson walks free – a significant win in a battle that stretches far beyond the courtroom.

"Sometimes, going to jail is necessary to make your point. Every situation offers an opportunity, and this was another chance to shine a global spotlight on Japan's illegal whaling in the Southern Ocean Sanctuary. If I had been sent to Japan, I might never have come home. I’m relieved that didn’t happen."

– Captain Paul Watson