Insurance conference at Howden's London office met with protests

The protesters targeted several firms, including Swiss Re and Hannover Re

Insurance conference at Howden's London office met with protests

Environmental

By Josh Recamara

An insurance conference at Howden’s London office was disrupted Wednesday morning by protesters from Extinction Rebellion and associated student groups.  

The Risk Forum and Exhibition, hosted by Howden, began at 8:15am, with attendees met by megaphones, whistles and demonstrators occupying the entrance hall of One Creechurch Lane.  

The climate protest group stated that Swiss Re, Munich Re, Hannover Re, AXA and Allianz, along with their chief executives, were the focus of the demonstration. According to the group, these companies were targeted due to their support for high-risk fossil fuel projects, which they claim undermines efforts to address climate change and contributes to environmental harm. 

Inside the conference, protesters interrupted proceedings with speeches and theatrical performances, presenting testimonies from individuals affected by climate change. Outside, a model of a green sports car, designed to appear as though sinking into floodwaters, was displayed as a symbol of the perceived consequences of fossil fuel investments. 

Student groups, including Insure Tomorrow and the Education Climate Coalition, participated by occupying the lobby and displaying banners warning that young talent is shunning fossil fuel insurers. They highlighted a trend among young professionals avoiding employment with companies involved in fossil fuel insurance. 

The protest coincided with demonstrations outside the Royal Courts of Justice, marking the first day of appeals against the sentences of 16 Just Stop Oil activists jailed for protesting. The hearing began at the Court of Appeal, criminal division, and was scheduled to last for two days. Protesters outside the courthouse heard speeches, including one from Chris Packham. 

The insurance industry has previously been the focus of similar protests. In February 2024, Extinction Rebellion activists occupied offices of several insurance firms in London, criticising their involvement in insuring fossil fuel projects.  

Insure Our Survival spokesperson Steve Tooze said: “The insurance industry has been flying under the radar for decades as a prime enabler of climate breakdown.” 

The protest at Howden’s office is part of a broader campaign by Extinction Rebellion to pressure the insurance sector to cease underwriting fossil fuel projects. The group argues that by providing insurance to these projects, the industry plays a crucial role in facilitating activities that contribute to climate change. 

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