Protestors at the Military Base in Okinawa

Protestors demanding the release of a fellow protestor that has recently been arrested. At the same time they are protesting against the expansion of the base. Its construction will double the size of the current base, affectively a US military mega-base that will include two airstrips. In order to do this they plan to reclaim land around the sea, this will permanently damage the coral reefs and the feeding grounds of the dugong, an endangered species. Preparations for construction has already started and a perimeter has already been set that restricts access for the general public. Currently US bases occupy almost 20 percent of the land in Okinawa.

Unique identifier: GP0STPET1

Type: Image

Shoot date: 29/10/2015

Locations: Asia, Henoko, Japan, Okinawa-ken

Credit line: © Ian Teh / Greenpeace

Ranking: ★★★★★★ (B)

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Stories of Protest in Okinawa

The ocean home of the last few Japanese dugongs is about to be landfilled to make way for two airstrips – part of the expansion of a US military base on the island of Okinawa. But a movement nearly 18 years old is standing up to say NO.

The struggle is reaching a fever pitch. The majority of Okinawa's people – from students to grandparents and the local governor – have voiced their opposition to the plans. But construction work continues. There are daily scuffles outside the base as protesters attempt to prevent bulldozers and equipment from entering the bay.

Here are the stories of six courageous people who are taking action to save the dugongs and protect the rich ocean life for future generations.

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Stories of Protest in Okinawa

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