Last Generation (climate movement)

The Last Generation (German: Letzte Generation, pronounced [ˈlɛt͡stə ˌɡeːnəʁaˈt͡sjoːn], Italian: Ultima Generazione, Polish: Ostatnie pokolenie) is a group of climate change activists using forms of direct action which is mostly active in Germany, Italy, Poland and Canada. It describes itself as an "alliance" and was formed in 2021 from participants in the Hungerstreik der letzten Generation [de] ("last generation hunger strike"). The term was chosen because they considered themselves to be the last generation before tipping points in the earth's climate system would be reached. The Austria section of Last Generation announced in August 2024 that it would end its activities under that name.

The group has staged direct non-violent actions including numerous road blockades (276 in Germany over the course of 2022) and used paint to vandalise yachts, notorious paintings, buildings, restaurants and private jets. Protests in Germany were mainly focused on car usage and traffic policy, while those in Italy focused on cultural assets.

The civil disobedience methods of the group have met with mixed reactions from the public, including expressions of outrage and threats of violence. They have also received criticism for their disruptive nature.

On 26 February 2025, Letzte Generation announced its reorganization into two successor organizations: Neue Generation and Widerstandskollektiv. Neue Generation [translation: New Generation] will expand its focus beyond climate activism to include the defense and promotion of democratic values in Germany. Meanwhile, Widerstandskollektiv [translation: Resistance collective] will emphasize direct actions against environmental destruction and social injustice.