Large gatherings of world leaders to discuss financial matters always leads to some sort of protest. Today we have a variety of forms coming out of England to protest the G20. Also, the reasons for protest are pretty diverse.
First, we have the peaceful camp of protestors. Climate Camp demonstrators have set up tents and are just kind of relaxing in a show of non-violent protest. What are they protesting? Carbon markets. Reasonable protests, reasonable cause.
Second, we have the standard street marchers. Over 4,000 people were estimated to be in the streets by the London police. They are, of course, going up against a number of officers greater than 5,000. These marchers, and subsequently, standers, have a variety of reasons they are out.
Some of them share the same qualms as Climate Camp. They see the G20 meeting as a great opportunity for world leaders to implement green initiatives. Other than the brief nature of the meeting, this would be a great chance for world leaders to discuss green technology. However, it is unlikely that they will be able to with other pressing matters at the fore. Still, you have to hand it these protesters, they have to go out a lot to make a little difference.
Unfortunately for these people, they are walking alongside some crazies. What makes the crazies crazy per se? For one, they are handing out pamphlets with slogans such as, "Hang the bankers" while shouting, "storm the banks." These are the people police are worried about. With the 4,000 strong marches, small groups are threatening to hijack the situation and lead it to violence.
So far though there have only been minor scuffles with police. You have to hand it to the Brits, they are really good at dealing with protesters. They have also dealt with some pretty bizarre situations so far, including an armored car with protesters in it. Apparently one man described it as looking like the "Batmobile."
For more information check out the Guardian's website, they have a really good up to the minute timeline.
Peace.
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One of the issues being discussed at the G20 summit is a call by China for reform of the IMF, more specifically a change in the make-up of the SDR basket of currencies, as discussed in more detail in my article on the issue.