O'Brien's Reprieve, Berlin4's Peril

The *World Socialist Web Site* article discusses the trial of four climate activists in Germany, highlighting concerns about the erosion of democratic rights during the legal proceedings. The four activists are being prosecuted for an action protesting against alleged inaction on climate change by the government. The article focuses on the court's decision to restrict the cross-examination of a key witness, a police officer, regarding his role in the activists' arrest. The defense argued the officer's testimony was crucial to demonstrating the disproportionate and potentially politically motivated nature of the police response to the protest. By limiting the cross-examination, the court effectively shielded the officer from scrutiny and hindered the defense's ability to present its case. The article portrays the restrictions as a violation of the defendants' rights to a fair trial and due process. It criticizes the court for prioritizing the protection of state authority over ensuring a just outcome for the accused. The *World Socialist Web Site* views the trial as a demonstration of how democratic rights are being undermined, particularly in cases involving political activism and dissent. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/04/16/xayn-a16.html