Recent posts by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Instagram have been met with an unusual flood of comments. Regardless of whether the post discusses Danish specialties, LGBTQ+ events, or environmental policy, one individual appears to dominate the discussions: Paul Watson. This well-known environmental activist is currently in custody in Greenland, prompting a massive campaign from his supporters who aim to pressure both Greenland and Denmark through social media.

The comment sections are filled with messages such as “Free Paul,” “Boycott Denmark,” and “Shame on Denmark” from users around the world demanding Watson’s release. The 73-year-old activist was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, based on an arrest warrant issued by Japan. Japan is seeking his extradition for allegedly assaulting Japanese whalers in Antarctica in 2010, thereby hindering their operations.

Paul Watson, recognized for his strong opposition to whaling, maintains his innocence. Japan has requested Denmark to extradite him, leaving the decision in the hands of the Ministry of Justice (Justitsministeriet). Consequently, Watson’s supporters have also targeted Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard’s Instagram account and the Danish Royal Family’s profile, although comments on these accounts are being regularly deleted.

Both the Prime Minister’s Office (Statsministeriet) and the Ministry of Justice have declined to comment on the case, leaving the question of Paul Watson’s future unanswered. Meanwhile, social media commentary continues to draw significant attention.