The majority of those attending the protests are non-violent. A small group of activists, however, estimated to number about 1000, and mostly linked to extreme anarchist groups, are expected to cause trouble. It originated in the environmental movement of the 1980s, and has since expanded to cover a whole spectrum of issues, including globalisation, third world debt, free speech, poverty, homelessness, genetically modified foods, the arms trade, drugs legalistion and cruelty to animals. On the one hand they eschew traditional leadership structures and planning in favour of a less formal, more random approach to activism. The web gives you enormous power and is now fundamental in organising any protest.
Most direct action is peaceful.
This year's protest is set to begin with a Critical Mass cycle rally through central London. At the more radical end of the scale, however, there are groups and individuals within groups who are prepared to resort to violence to get their point across. An AOL Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you.