Somewhat less than one year before the G8-summit, autonomously organized resistance meets and plots for several days in close proximity to the future summit location. Numbers are difficult to guess – several reports speak of more than 500, but the kitchens prepare 1,500 portions per meal.

The Camp tries to unite groups and individuals from diverse political currents – but conflicts have already threatened to split the coalition. A bar collective, trying to raise money for its own political projects, was banned from the camp. The Israeli-Hezbollah war is another dividing factor, with anti-imperialists pledging support for oppressed Arab peoples, while many anti-nationalists denounce the Left’s support for Islamic fundamentalism and warn of a new wave of anti-Semitism.

Meanwhile, preparations for the summit are well under way and acts of defiance have already begun. A “Door Knocking” exercise saw activists going from door to door in nearby villages and towns to inform residents of the future protests. A villa was occupied in opposition to the commercialisation of the increasingly posh seaside resort. An anti-racist demonstration was held in the nearby city of Rostock, an area infamous for its neo-Nazi activities. Anti-fascists have also warned of National Socialist infiltration of anti-capitalist protest during the summit.

The camp runs until Sunday.